Norvasc (Amlodipine Besylate) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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February 3, 2012

Norvasc

Congestive Heart Failure »

Congestive heart failure facts

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a condition in which the heart's function as a pump is inadequate to meet the body's needs.

Many disease processes can impair the pumping efficiency of the heart to cause congestive heart failure.

The symptoms of congestive heart failure vary, but can include fatigue, diminished exercise capacity, shortness of breath, and swelling.

The diagnosis of congestive heart failure is based on knowledge of the individual's medical history, a careful physical examination, and selected laboratory tests.

The treatment of congestive heart failure can include lifestyle modifications, addressing potentially reversible factors, medications, heart transplant, and mechanical therapies.

The course of congestive heart failure in any given patient is extremely variable.

What is congestive h...

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NORVASC®
(amlodipine besylate) Tablets for oral administration

DRUG DESCRIPTION

NORVASC is the besylate salt of amlodipine, a long-acting calcium channel blocker.

Amlodipine besylate is chemically described as 3-Ethyl-5-methyl (±)-2-[(2-aminoethoxy)methyl]-4-(2-chlorophenyl)-l,4-dihydro-6-methyl-3,5-pyridinedicarboxylate, monobenzenesulphonate. Its empirical formula is C₂₀H₂₅CIN₂O₅•C₆H₆O₃S, and its structural formula is:

NORVASC®
(amlodipine besylate) Structural Formula Illustration

Amlodipine besylate is a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 567.1. It is slightly soluble in water and sparingly soluble in ethanol. NORVASC (amlodipine besylate) Tablets are formulated as white tablets equivalent to 2.5, 5, and 10 mg of amlodipine for oral administration. In addition to the active ingredient, amlodipine besylate, each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, dibasic calcium phosphate anhydrous, sodium starch glycolate, and magnesium stearate.

What are the possible side effects of amlodipine (Norvasc)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

feeling like you might pass out;
swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet;
chest pain;
slow, fast, or pounding heartbeats;
easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
numbness, burning, pain, or tingly feeling; or
jaundice...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Norvasc »

What are the precautions when taking amlodipine besylate (Norvasc)?

Before taking amlodipine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (such as nisoldipine, nifedipine) or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a certain structural heart problem (aortic stenosis), very low blood pressure, liver disease.

This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or...

Read All Potential Precautions of Norvasc »

Last reviewed on RxList: 11/14/2011
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.