Drug Uses

Norvasc is a medicine from the group of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Norvasc is used to relax and widen the arteries and veins, and facilitates the pumping of the heart and reduces it workload. Norvasc is indicted for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina (chest pain). This medicine may also be used for other purposes that are not listed in this leaflet.

How Taken

Norvasc is available in the form of tablets and is taken orally once a day. You may take Norvasc with food or milk to avoid stomach problems. Consult your doctor before using any salt substitutes that contain potassium. If your doctor prescribes you a low-salt or low-sodium diet, you should strictly follow it.

Warnings/Precautions

Before you take Norvasc, you should inform your doctor in case 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. If you suffer from any of the above-mentioned conditions, you may not been able to use Norvasc or your dosage may have to be adjusted, or you may have to be monitored during the treatment. Norvasc falls into the FDA category C which means that it is not clear if it may harm a fetus. Talk to your doctor before using Norvasc in case you are pregnant. Also, consult your doctor before taking the medicine if you are breast feeding because it is not known if Norvasc passes into breast milk.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

Discontinue the usage of Norvasc and search for medical help if you experience any of these serious adverse effects:
-an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives
-unusually fast or slow heartbeat;
-chest pain;
-severe dizziness or fainting;
-psychosis;
-jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
-swelling of the legs or ankles.
Other less serious adverse effects may occur. Consult your doctor but do not stop using Norvasc if you have
-fatigue or tiredness;
-headache;
-insomnia;
-vivid or abnormal dreams;
-flushing;
-abdominal pain;
-nausea, diarrhea, or constipation; or
-increased or difficult urination.
You may also experience other adverse effects that are not mentioned in this leaflet. Consult your doctor if you experience some other side effects.

Storage

Store bottles at controlled room temperature, 59° to 86°F (15° to 30°C) and dispense in tight, light-resistant containers.

Overdose

Over dosage might be expected to cause excessive peripheral vasodilatation with marked hypotension and possibly a reflex tachycardia. Symptoms of Norvasc overdose include dizziness, weakness, and chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, coma, slurred speech, and confusion.

More Information

Before taking Norvasc, 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. If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Norvasc. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.