GENERIC NAME: AMLODIPINE/ATORVASTATIN - ORAL (am-LOW-dih-peen/uh-TORE-vuh-stah-tin)

BRAND NAME(S): Caduet

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This product contains a calcium channel blocker, amlodipine, and a "statin" (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor), atorvastatin. Amlodipine works by blocking calcium which relaxes and widens the blood vessels. It is used to treat high blood pressure or chest pain (angina). Atorvastatin is used along with a proper diet to help lower cholesterol and fats (triglycerides) in the blood. It is usually prescribed after non-drug treatments (e.g., diet change, increase in exercise, weight loss if overweight) have not been fully successful at lowering cholesterol. Atorvastatin is used in adults and children (10 years of age and older). Before starting this combination product, girls must have had their first menstrual period. Reducing high blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides help prevent strokes and heart attacks. Reducing high blood pressure also helps prevent kidney problems.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily with or without food, or as directed by your doctor. This drug is best taken in the evening. Dosage is based on your medical condition, response to therapy, and use of certain interacting medicines. Many of the drugs listed in the Drug Interactions section may increase the chances of muscle injury when used with atorvastatin. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of certain medications in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. If you also use certain other drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take this combination product at least 2 hours after them. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. It may take up to two weeks for the full benefits of amlodipine to take effect, and up to 4 weeks for the full benefits of atorvastatin to take effect. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or triglycerides do not feel sick. 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. 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.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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