NORVASC

Who is Norvasc for ?

Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure. If taken regularly, amlodipine controls chest pain, but it does not stop chest pain once it starts. Your doctor may give you a different medication to take when you have chest pain. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker. It works to lower blood pressure by interfering with the normal role of calcium in the heart and blood vessels. By blocking calcium's entry into the heart muscle and blood vessels, amlodipine causes blood vessels to dilate and thus, blood pressure is lowered. It also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart to control chest pain (angina).

When should I be careful taking Norvasc ?

Before taking amlodipine,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amlodipine or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially fentanyl (Duragesic), medication for high blood pressure, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, liver, or kidney disease.
• tell your doctor if you notice more frequent or more severe chest pain (angina).
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking amlodipine, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell your doctor or

dentist that you are taking amlodipine.

Side Effects

Although side effects from amlodipine are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• upset stomach
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• excessive tiredness
• flushing (feeling of warmth)
• heartburn
• fast heartbeat
• muscle cramps
• nosebleed
• decreased sexual ability

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fainting
• rash
• yellowing of the skin or eyes