Norvasc (Amlodipine)

What is Norvasc?

Norvasc belongs to a group of drugs known as the calcium channel blockers. It is the besylate salt of amlodipine.

What is Norvasc used for?

Norvasc is used to treat high blood pressure or hypertension. Norvasc is also indicated for the treatment of chronic stable angina and also for confirmed or suspected vasospastic angina.

How does Norvasc work?

Norvasc works by dilating blood vessels and reducing blood pressure of the body. Norvasc also reduces the pain of angina. Amlodipine (present in Norvasc) is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist. It is a slow-channel blocker. It inhibits the transmembrane flow of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle.

How to use Norvasc

Norvasc is usually taken once daily. Taking Norvasc in larger amounts or for longer periods than recommended can cause some serious health ailments. It is advisable to follow the instructions of the doctor while taking Norvasc. Following a proper diet schedule, regular exercises and other medications may result in faster recovery.

If you are taking Norvasc for the treatment of high blood pressure, keep taking Norvasc even if you are fine.

Norvasc warnings and precautions

While you are on Norvasc dose, avoid drinking alcohol as it may increase some of the side effects of Norvasc. After having taken the Norvasc dose, do not get up too fast from a lying or sitting position as you may feel dizzy and you may fall.

Do not take Norvasc if you are allergic to amlodipine. Before, taking Norvasc, tell your doctor if you are suffering from a liver or heart disease. Pregnant and lactating females must consult their doctors before starting with the medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Norvasc dose?

If you have missed your Norvasc dose you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Norvasc overdose?

If you have taken a Norvasc overdose you should seek medical attention.

Norvasc interactions

Before taking Norvasc, tell your doctor about all the medicines that you are taking. Also intimate your doctor about the use of minerals, vitamins, herbal products and other over-the-counter medications as the interaction may increase the side effects of Norvasc.

Norvasc side effects

Norvasc side effects include breathing difficulty; swelling of face, tongue, lips, or throat and other allergic reactions.

Some serious side effects of Norvasc include swelling in hands, feet or ankles; chest pain or unusual heartbeats, and jaundice. You may also experience bruising or unusual weakness.

Sudden headache, depression, drowsiness, insomnia, dizziness, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhoea, and increased sweating are also side effects from Norvasc.