NorvascAmlodipine

Drug name

Norvasc (Amlodipine)

Drug Uses

Norvasc is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and to treat angina (chest pain). Norvasc may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

How Taken

Norvasc comes as a tablet to take it orally. It is usually taken once a day. Norvasc may cause an upset stomach. Take Norvasc with food or milk. Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Amlodipine belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. These medications block the transport of calcium into the smooth muscle cells lining the coronary arteries and other arteries of the body. Since calcium is important in muscle contraction, blocking calcium transport relaxes artery muscles and dilates coronary arteries and other arteries of the body. By relaxing coronary arteries, amlodipine is useful in preventing chest pain (angina) resulting from coronary artery spasm. Relaxing the muscles lining the arteries of the rest of the body lowers the blood pressure, which reduces the burden on the heart as it pumps blood to the body. Reducing heart burden lessens the heart muscle\'s demand for oxygen, and further helps to prevent angina in patients with coronary artery disease.

Storage

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

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.