Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: AMLODIPINE - ORAL (am-LOW-dih-peen)
BRAND NAME(S): Norvasc
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure or chest pain (angina). This medication is known as a calcium channel blocker. By blocking calcium, amlodipine relaxes and widens blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems.
HOW TO USE: This medication should be swallowed whole, usually once daily with or without food, or as directed by your doctor. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day. This drug is not effective if you use it only when chest pain occurs. It is very important to take this medication regularly as prescribed to help prevent chest pain. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your chest pain may worsen if the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
SIDE EFFECTS: This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position to allow your body time to adjust. Nausea, fatigue, weakness, stomach pain, drowsiness, muscle cramps, headache, or flushing may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: swelling of the hands or feet. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: irregular heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: worsening chest pain (attacks are more frequent, more severe, or last longer), yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Calcium Channel Blockers - Establishes the medication calcium channel blockers (CCBs), which are drugs used for treating high blood pressure, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation.
- High Blood Pressure - Learn about high blood pressure symptoms like headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, blurred vision and more. Causes, and normal blood pressure information is included.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
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