What is Norvasc?

Norvasc (amlodipine) is a calcium channel blocker, a drug that widens and relaxes the blood vessels, which as a result improves the blood flow. People that have problems with high blood pressure and angina pectoris (also known as chest pains) or any other problems caused by the coronary artery are recommended to use Norvasc (amlodipine). Also Norvasc (amlodipine) can be used for treating other deceases which are not on the list, but only with the doctor’s recommendation. Regarding Angina Pectoris, Norvasc is not the drug for the immediate relief of a sudden attack of the later. Ask your doctor or GP to recommend the appropriate medication for this matter.

Using Norvasc (amlodipine) is a good ideas if you suffer from the deceases mentioned above, on the other hand, before you start taking Norvasc (amlodipine) or switching from another drug, let you general practitioner know and also mention him all the current problems that you are suffering, from congestive heart failure to liver disease (if any). If you are unsure of its side effects, click for the Norvasc Side Effects section.


Norvasc Side Effects

Due to the severity of the illnesses that Norvasc treats, it has some side effects (like almost every other drug has). You should not be alarmed by this list, not all of the people suffer from them, just a small proportion. Chances are that you may not suffer any of them, and Norvasc is the drug for you.

Below is a list of the known Norvasc side effects. Remember to tell your GP, specialist or pharmacist if you experience any of the following more common Norvasc Side Effects

  • Swelling of the ankles, feet, face or hands
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Flushing
  • Palpitations
  • Tiredness
  • Drowsiness or sleepiness
  • Stomach pain or nausea

Some other side effects that are not that common are:

  • Indigestion
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Muscle cramps or aches
  • Sexual problems

They may not be directly related to Norvasc but always do NOT forget to tell your doctor.

Serious Norvasc side effects are really rare, but it may happen. You should tell your GB or specialist immediately if you notice any of the following:

  • changes in heart beat either fast or slow
  • chest pain
  • dizziness or lightheadedness on standing up from a sitting or lying position
  • shortness of breath
  • symptoms of allergy such as skin rash and/or itching
  • symptoms of liver disease such as itching, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and dark colored urine

These may be serious side effects that may need urgent medical attention. If you feel that you might have any other problems, let your GP or Specialist know about it. They may not be directly related to Norvasc but you should tell your doctor if they worry you.


Precautions before taking Norvasc

Be careful and do not take Norvasc (amlodipine) is you suffer or have these symptoms:

  • You are allergic to Norvasc, or any other medicine containing amlodipine (for example Perivasc)
  • You are allergic to other calcium channel blockers like felodipine (Plendil ER,Felodil XR, Felodur ER), nifedipine (Adalat, Adalat Oros, Addos XR, Adefin, GenRx Nifedipine, Nifehexal, Nyefax) or lercanidipine (Zanidip) and many more. Check with your GP, specialist or pharmacist for the full list
  • You are allergic to any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.

If you are still unsure, here are some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or other parts of the body
  • Rash, itching or hives on the skin

Other Indications:

  • Do not breast-feed if you are taking Norvasc (amlodipine)
  • Do not take this Norvasc (amlodipine) after the expiry date printed on the pack or if the packaging tampered.

If you are not sure whether you should start taking this medicine, talk to your GP or specialist.

Also, if you are unsure of the side effects, follow our Norvasc Side Effects Guide.


Norvasc (amlodipine) Usage

Use in Children

  • This medicine or drug should not be used by children, since there is no proof that it can work or be effective, due to their delicate organs

Indications should be as prescribed from the GB or Specialist. Do take Norvasc exactly as your doctor has prescribed.

Use in people 65 years or older

  • If you are 65 years or older, you should be really careful while taking Norvasc.
  • Report any side effects as soon as possible to your GP or Specialist.

If you are unsure of its side effects, click for the Norvasc Side Effects section.