Norvasc
Active Ingredients: Amlodipine
Other Names: Norvasc
Drug Class: Calcium Channel Blockers
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions: 
Pronunciation: 
What is/are Norvasc?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?
What is/are Norvasc?
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AMLODIPINE is a calcium-channel blocker. It affects the amount of calcium found in your heart and muscle cells. This relaxes your blood vessels, which can reduce the amount of work the heart has to do. This medicine is used to lower high blood pressure. It is also used to prevent chest pain.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions: - heart problems like heart failure or aortic stenosis
- liver disease
- an unusual or allergic reaction to amlodipine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take the tablets with or without food. Do not change the amount of grapefruit juice you drink from day to day while taking this drug, or avoid grapefruit juice altogether. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take more medicine than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. This medicine has been used in children as young as 6.
Persons over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and need smaller doses.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
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- herbal or dietary supplements
- local or general anesthetics
- medicines for high blood pressure
- medicines for prostate problems
- rifampin
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: - allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- breathing problems
- changes in vision or hearing
- chest pain
- fast, irregular heartbeat
- swelling of legs or ankles
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):- dry mouth
- facial flushing
- nausea, vomiting
- stomach gas, pain
- tired, weak
- trouble sleeping
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Check your blood pressure and pulse rate regularly. Ask your health care professional what your blood pressure and pulse rate should be, and when you should contact him or her.
This medicine may make you feel confused, dizzy or lightheaded. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not sit or stand up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Avoid alcoholic drinks; they can make you more dizzy.
Do not suddenly stop taking amlodipine. Ask your doctor or health care professional how you can gradually reduce the dose.
Where should I keep this medicine?
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Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Last Updated:May 28, 2007 COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company |
