Important Note

The following 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 use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

AMLODIPINE - ORAL

(am-LOW-dih-peen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Norvasc

Uses

This medication is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium is involved in blood vessel contraction. By blocking calcium, amlodipine relaxes and widens the blood vessels. This drug is used to treat high blood pressure or chest pain (angina). High blood pressure reduction 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. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease, liver disease, any allergies. Limit intake of alcohol while taking this drug. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug.

Drug Interactions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: other high blood pressure medications (e.g., beta-blockers, "water pills"/diuretics), intravenous (IV) calcium, other medications for chest pain (e.g., nitroglycerin). Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products, diet aids) because they may contain ingredients that could increase your heart rate or blood pressure. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those 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: severe dizziness, fainting, and a fast heartbeat.

Notes

Have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. It may be best to learn how to monitor your own blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor. Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).