This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Norvasc Consumer Information
AMLODIPINE
Generic Name: amlodipine (am LOE di peen)
Brand Names: Norvasc
What is the most important information I should know about amlodipine?
- Do not stop taking amlodipine without first talking to your doctor, even if you begin to feel better. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.
What is amlodipine?
- Amlodipine is in a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Amlodipine relaxes (widens) the blood vessels (veins and arteries), making it easier for the heart to pump and reducing its workload.
- Amlodipine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and to treat angina (chest pain).
- Amlodipine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking amlodipine?
- Before taking amlodipine, tell your doctor if you have
- liver disease; or
- another disease of the heart or blood vessels such as sick sinus syndrome, aortic stenosis, heart failure, low blood pressure, or coronary artery disease.
- You may not be able to take amlodipine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Amlodipine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether amlodipine will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
- It is not known whether amlodipine passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
- If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from amlodipine. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.
How should I take amlodipine?
- Take amlodipine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- Do not stop taking amlodipine without first talking to your doctor, even if you begin to feel better. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.
- Store amlodipine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of an amlodipine overdose include dizziness, weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, coma, slurred speech, and confusion.
What should I avoid while taking amlodipine?
- Follow any recommendations your doctor makes about diet or exercise.
- Use caution when you stand or sit up from a lying position, especially if you wake up during the night. You may become dizzy when changing positions.
- Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness or dizziness while taking amlodipine.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.