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What is Norvasc: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 13, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Norvasc overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Norvasc, Katerzia

Generic Names:

  • Amlodipine Besylate

Uses:

  • Lowers high blood pressure and relieves chronic stable angina (chest pain). This medicine is a calcium channel blocker.

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Antianginal, Antihypertensive, Cardiovascular Agent

Forms:

  • Liquid, Tablet, Dissolving Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Norvasc used for?

Norvasc is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). Norvasc belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. This drugs acts by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels to allow blood to flow easier. Norvasc is a brand version of the drug amlodipine. The patent on Norvasc expired in 2007. In the treatment of high blood pressure and chest pain, Norvasc use is common.

What form(s) does Norvasc come in

  • Liquid

  • Tablet

  • Dissolving Tablet

What are common Norvasc doses?

  • Tablet 2.5MG

  • Tablet 5MG

  • Tablet 10MG

Common Norvasc prescriptions

  • Norvasc
    30 tablets bottle

  • Norvasc
    60 tablets bottle

  • Norvasc
    90 tablets bottle

  • Norvasc
    10mg tablet

  • Norvasc
    2.5mg tablet

  • Norvasc
    5mg tablet

How to take Norvasc

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you. Take this medicine at the same time each day.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the oral liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the oral liquid in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you. Take this medicine at the same time each day.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Norvasc contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to amlodipine.

Norvasc warnings

  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, or heart or blood vessel disease (including coronary artery disease, aortic stenosis).

  • This medicine may cause the following problems:Low blood pressureWorsening chest painIncreased risk of heart attack

  • This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.

  • Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor, even if you feel well. This medicine will not cure high blood pressure, but it will help keep it in normal range. You may have to take blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Norvasc interactions

  • Some medicines can affect how amlodipine works. Tell your doctor if you are also using clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, itraconazole, ritonavir, sildenafil, simvastatin, or tacrolimus.

  • This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.

  • Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.

  • Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor, even if you feel well. This medicine will not cure high blood pressure, but it will help keep it in normal range. You may have to take blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Norvasc side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • New or worsening chest pain

  • Trouble breathing, nausea, unusual sweating

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or legs

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