Norvasc

Uses:
Norvasc is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium is involved in blood vessel contraction. By blocking calcium, amlodipine relaxes and widens the blood vessels. It is used to treat high blood pressure or chest pain (angina). Ask your doctor or pharmacist about possible problems related to use of short-acting calcium channel blockers.

How to Take:
Norvasc should be swallowed whole without regard to meals unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Norvasc must be taken as directed if used to prevent chest pain. It is not effective if taken only when chest pain occurs. Do not stop taking Norvasc suddenly without your doctor's permission. Chest pain can occur if the medication is stopped too fast. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Side Effects:
Norvasc may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days. Avoid activities requiring alertness. When you sit or lie down for a while, get up slowly to allow your body to adjust and minimize dizziness. You may also experience fatigue or weakness, nausea, heartburn, muscle cramps, headache, flushing, or rash. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop breathing difficulties, swelling of the hands or feet, an irregular heartbeat, or yellowing of the eyes or skin. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of heart or liver disease, and if you have any allergies. Limit intake of alcohol while taking Norvasc. Norvasc should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if Norvasc is excreted into breast milk. Other calcium channel blockers are known to be excreted and breast-feeding is not recommended while taking those drugs. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, propranolol), cyclosporine and digoxin. Avoid any drugs that increase your heart-rate (the decongestants phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine and phenylpropanolamine are examples). These drugs are commonly found in over-the-counter cough-and-cold products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, fainting, and a fast heartbeat.

Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.

NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.