Why is Norvasc prescribed?

Amlodipine (Norvasc) is used to treat high blood pressure. Norvasc relaxes your blood vessels so your heart does not have to pump as hard. Norvasc also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart to control chest pain (angina). If taken regularly, Amlodipine (Norvasc) controls chest pain, but it does not stop chest pain once it starts. Your doctor may give you a different medication to take when you have chest pain.

Norvasc is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more Norvasc information.

How should Norvasc be used?

Amlodipine (Norvasc) comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Norvasc is usually taken once a day. Follow the Norvasc directions on your Norvasc prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Amlodipine (Norvasc) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less Norvasc or take Norvasc more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Amlodipine (Norvasc) controls high blood pressure and chest pain (angina) but does not cure them. Continue to take Amlodipine (Norvasc) even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Amlodipine (Norvasc) without talking to your doctor.

What special Norvasc precautions should I follow?

Before taking Amlodipine (Norvasc),

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Amlodipine (Norvasc) or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially fentanyl (Duragesic), medication for high blood pressure, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, liver, or kidney disease.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Amlodipine (Norvasc), call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking Amlodipine (Norvasc).
• tell your doctor if you notice more frequent or more severe chest pain (angina).

What special Norvasc dietary instructions should I follow?

Amlodipine (Norvasc) may cause an upset stomach. Take Amlodipine (Norvasc) with food or milk.

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit 1 hour before or for 2 hours after taking Amlodipine (Norvasc).

Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these Norvasc directions carefully.

What should I do if I forget a Norvasc dose?

Take the missed Norvasc dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next Norvasc dose, skip the missed Norvasc dose and continue your regular Norvasc dosing schedule. Do not take a double Norvasc dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Norvasc cause?

Although side effects from Amlodipine (Norvasc) are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Norvasc symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• upset stomach
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• excessive tiredness
• flushing (feeling of warmth)
• heartburn
• fast heartbeat
• muscle cramps
• nosebleed
• decreased sexual ability

If you experience any of the following Norvasc symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fainting
• rash
• yellowing of the skin or eyes

What storage conditions are needed for Norvasc?

Keep Norvasc in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Norvasc at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Norvasc that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your Norvasc.

In case of Norvasc emergency/overdose

In case of Norvasc overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of Norvasc overdose may include:

• dizziness
• fainting
• rapid heartbeat

What other Norvasc information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to Amlodipine (Norvasc).

Do not let anyone else take your Norvasc. Ask your pharmacist any Norvasc questions you have about refilling your Norvasc prescription.