General Information on Norvasc
Norvasc is indicated for the treatment of angina, or chest pain. This drug is also used for treating hypertension, or high blood pressure. The generic name of this drug is Amlodipine, and it comes under a group of drugs referred as calcium channel blockers.
Calcium plays a vital role in muscle contraction. By blocking calcium, Amlodipine helps the arteries to relax. This, in turn, helps in circulation of blood. Effective blood circulation reduces the pressure on the heart, allowing it to beat more easily.
Norvasc is available for oral administration only. You can buy Norvasc in form of oral tablets, which are available in following strengths – Norvasc 2.5 mg, Norvasc 5 mg, and Norvasc 10 mg. This drug is meant for adults and children above 6 years of age.
The active ingredient in Norvasc is Amlodipine. The inactive ingredients present in this drug are: microcrystalline cellulose, magnesium stearate, dibasic calcium phosphate anhydrous, and sodium starch glycolate.
Side effects of Norvasc
If you have a known allergy to Amlodipine, you should not buy Norvasc. Patients who have a history of chronic heart failure, liver disease, or aortic stenosis may require dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment. It is important that you inform your doctor, in advance, about your medical history, especially if you have or have had any of the aforementioned medical conditions.
Some of the common side effects associated with this drug are: stomach pain, tired feeling, headache, flushing, dizziness, or drowsiness. Other side effects of Norvasc may include fluttering in the chest, swelling in the hands, or chest pain. Consult your doctor if any side effect experienced during treatment with Norvasc causes concern.
The effect of this drug on the fetus has not been studied. If you are pregnant, inform your doctor about it and buy Norvasc only if your doctor approves its use.
Norvasc may or may not be safe for breastfeeding children. Consult your doctor before using this drug if you are nursing a child.
Dosage of Norvasc
Norvasc is administered once a day. The recommended dosage for treatment of high blood pressure in adult patients is 5 mg daily. The maximum daily dosage is 10 mg. Geriatric patients or patients suffering from hepatic insufficiency may be administered a lower dosage of 2.5 mg.
The recommended daily dosage range for treatment of angina, or chest pain, in adult patients is 5mg –10 mg. Doctors may prescribe a lower dosage for geriatric patients or patients who have hepatic insufficiency.
The recommended dosage range for treatment of high blood pressure in children in age bracket 5-17 years is 2.5 mg – 5 mg daily.
Taking more than the prescribed amount of this drug may lead to serious side effects. On the other hand, if you take less than prescribed amount of Norvasc, treatment may fail to produce desirable results. That is why it is essential for you to take this drug exactly as prescribed by your physician.
Interactions
Certain drugs, such as other calcium channel blockers or beta-blockers, may interact with Norvasc. You should inform your physician, in advance, about all other drugs that you are taking. This includes drugs that you buy over the counter.
