Norvasc

Norvasc General Information

Generic Name:amlodipine

Brand Name:Norvasc

Norvasc is in a group of drugs called Calcium Channel blockers that dilates blood vessels and slows the heart to reduce blood pressure and the pain of angina. Norvasc treats high blood pressure and angina.

Norvasc is also used for purposes not listed here.

Norvasc Uses

Before using Norvasc, doctor should be told of congestive heart failure or liver disease. Norvasc should not be taken if the patient is allergic to amlodipine. Due to the presence of some conditions, the dose adjustment of the medication may be required or special test for safe use of the medication may be needed. If the patient is already taking beta blocker drug, he should not stop the same suddenly without first talking to the doctor. It should be gradually stopped. Abruptly stopping beta blocker may lead to serious heart problem which Norvasc will not be able to prevent.

Norvasc may be harmful to unborn baby. A pregnant mother or a lady who intend to become pregnant during this medication, must tell the doctor about all. Breast feeding mother must also tell the same to the doctor before using this medication although it is still not known whether Norvasc passes into the breast milk or not.

How Take Norvasc

Norvasc should be used as it is prescribed. The medication should not be used in larger amount or use it for longer than recommended by the doctor. Follow the directions as specified on the prescription label.

Norvasc is usually taken once daily. Doctor may, however, change the dose for better results.

Chest pain may increase when Norvasc is started first or its dose is increased. Seek doctor's advice.

Norvasc is a part of a complete program of treatment that includes diet, exercise, weight control and other medications. All these must be followed duly.

If the patient is treated for high blood pressure, continue using this medication even if he is feeling better.

Norvasc Warnings

Do not get up from sitting or lying down posture too quickly or you may feel dizzy. One should get up slowly and steady oneself properly to prevent a fall.No alcoholic beverages to be taken since that may increase some of the side effects of Norvasc.

Norvasc Missed Dose

Missed dose as and when remembered should be taken.But, if it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose may be skipped and the next schedule dose to be taken. No extra dose to be taken to compensate the missed dose.

Norvasc Side Effects

Get emergency medical help in case of the following allergic reactions:breathing difficulty, hive, swelling of lips, tongue, face, or throat. However, the Doctor should be called at once if these serious side effects are felt:

• Odd feeling that you may pass out
• Swelling of hands, ankles and feet
• Chest pain
• Unusual weakness, bruising, bleeding
• Numbness, burning, pain, tingling feeling
• Jaundice

There may be less serious side effects like headache, drowsiness, depression, spinning sensation, warmth, diarrhea, constipation, more urination, mild skin rash, jointpain, burning or bleeding, sneezing, headache, nausea, muscle pain, dry mouth, thirst, increased sweating, weight changes.

However, this is not a complete list of side effects and there may be others that may occur.

Norvasc Storage Advice

Norvasc should be stored in room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Norvasc Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention, if there is an overdose of Norvasc suspected to have been taken by the patient. Symptoms of overdose include warmth, tingly feeling, severe dizziness, and fainting.

Norvasc More Information

Pharmacist can provide more information about Norvasc. Take due care to keep the medicines out of reach from children, never share the medicine with others and use the medication only for the indication prescribed.