Norvasc (Amlodipine)

Do’s 

• Before starting treatment with Norvasc,  review the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. Should you have any inquiries, seek guidance from your healthcare provider.
• Administer this medication orally, with or without food, as per your healthcare provider’s instructions, typically once daily.
• If you are using the liquid form, refer to the manufacturer's information or consult your pharmacist for specific directions. Some liquid forms may require shaking before use, while others may not. Use a specialized measuring device/spoon to accurately measure the dose.
• The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may gradually adjust your dose. Adhere closely to their instructions.
• Consistently use this medication to derive the maximum benefit. To aid in recollection, take it at the same time each day. Even if you feel well, continue the medication, as most individuals with high blood pressure do not experience symptoms.
• For angina treatment, this medication must be taken regularly to be effective. 
• Notify your healthcare provider if your condition does not improve or worsen, such as if your blood pressure readings remain elevated or increase, or if chest pain persists or intensifies.

Don’ts

• Avoiding the use of a household spoon when measuring the liquid medication.
• This medication should not be used to address an angina episode. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on using other medications (such as sublingual nitroglycerin) to relieve an angina attack.

Common Side Effects:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Flushing
• Swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Stomach pain
• Drowsiness
• Excessive tiredness
• Palpitations
• Pounding heartbeats or fluttering in the chest

Serious Side Effects:

• Worsening chest pain
• Light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
• Signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Rapid heartbeats
• Redness or warmth in the arms or legs
• Fainting
• Chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to the jaw or shoulder, nausea, sweating

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience any of these serious side effects.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and report any side effects promptly.

Before taking Norvasc, inform your healthcare provider if you have congestive heart failure or liver disease.

Drinking alcohol while taking Norvasc can further lower your blood pressure and may increase certain side effects of amlodipine.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, continue using Norvasc even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Norvasc is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, weight control, and other medications. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.

Inform your healthcare provider about all other heart or blood pressure medications you are taking.

Norvasc is not indicated for use in children under 6 years of age. Patients older than 65 should consult their healthcare provider to determine if a lower starting dose of Norvasc is recommended.

The information provided here is not exhaustive. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and to address any concerns or questions about the use of Norvasc.