Amlodipine tablets
What do amlodipine tablets do?
AMLODIPINE (Norvasc(R)) is a calcium-channel blocker. It affects the amount of calcium found in your heart and muscle cells. This results in relaxation of blood vessels, which can reduce the amount of work the heart has to do. Amlodipine lowers high blood pressure (hypertension). It also relieves different types of chest pain (angina). It is not a cure.
What should my health care professional know before I take amlodipine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• heart problems
• coronary artery disease
• liver disease
• low blood pressure
• an unusual or allergic reaction to amlodipine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take amlodipine tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. You can take the tablets with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often then directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Elderly patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and need smaller doses.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with amlodipine?
• carbamazepine
• fosphenytoin
• grapefruit juice
• hawthorn
• phenobarbital
• phenytoin
• primidone
• rifabutin
• rifampin
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking amlodipine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• fainting spells, lightheadedness
• irregular heartbeat, chest pain, palpitations
• swelling of legs and ankles
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• drowsiness or dizziness
• facial flushing
• headache
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach pain or gas
• unusual weakness or tiredness