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In this Article

• What is amlodipine (Norvasc)?
• What are the possible side effects of amlodipine (Norvasc)?
• What is the most important information I should know about amlodipine (Norvasc)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking amlodipine (Norvasc)?
• How should I take amlodipine (Norvasc)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Norvasc)?
• What happens if I overdose (Norvasc)?
• What should I avoid while taking amlodipine (Norvasc)?
• What other drugs will affect amlodipine (Norvasc)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking amlodipine (Norvasc)?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to amlodipine.

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before taking amlodipine, tell your doctor if you have:

• congestive heart failure; or
• liver disease.

If you are also taking a beta-blocker drug (such as Blocadren, Corgard, Inderal, Normodyne, Tenormin, Toprol, Trandate, Zebeta, and others) do not suddenly stop using the beta-blocker without first talking to your doctor. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. Stopping a beta-blocker too quickly can cause serious heart problems that will not be prevented by amlodipine.

FDA pregnancy category C. Amlodipine may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether amlodipine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take amlodipine (Norvasc)?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Amlodipine is usually taken once daily. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Your chest pain may become worse when you first start taking amlodipine or when your dose is increased. Call your doctor if your chest pain is severe or ongoing.

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

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so you may not know when your blood pressure is high. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Store amlodipine at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.