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GENERIC NAME: AMLODIPINE - ORAL (am-LOW-dih-peen)
BRAND NAME(S): Norvasc
Most Common Medical Uses
Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure or chest pain (angina). This
medication is known as a calcium channel blocker. By blocking calcium, amlodipine
relaxes and widens blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Lowering high
blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems.
How To Use
This medication should be swallowed whole, usually once daily with or without
food, or as directed by your doctor. Use this medication regularly in order
to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it at the same time each day.
This drug is not effective if you use it only when chest pain occurs. It is
very important to take this medication regularly as prescribed to help prevent
chest pain. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel
well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not stop taking
this medication without consulting your doctor. Your chest pain may worsen if
the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.
Side Effects
This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first
few days. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving
or using machinery. Get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position
to allow your body time to adjust. Nausea, fatigue, weakness, stomach pain,
drowsiness, muscle cramps, headache, or flushing may occur. If any of these
effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your
doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: swelling of the
hands or feet. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious
side effects occur: irregular heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if any
of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: worsening chest
pain (attacks are more frequent, more severe, or last longer), yellowing of
the eyes or skin, dark urine. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely,
but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic
reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Before taking amlodipine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic
to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell
your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease,
liver disease. Limit intake of alcohol while taking this drug. Caution is advised
when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its
side effects. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known
whether this drug passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended
while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription
and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other high blood
pressure medications (e.g., beta-blockers, "water pills"/diuretics), intravenous
(IV) calcium, other medications for chest pain (e.g., nitroglycerin). Check
the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products, diet aids)
because they may contain ingredients that could increase your heart rate or
blood pressure. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Do
not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of
the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do
not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from
light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from
children and pets.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others. Have your blood pressure checked regularly
while taking this medication. It may be best to learn how to monitor your own
blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor. Lifestyle changes such as stress
reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes may increase the effectiveness
of this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes
that might benefit you.
Disclaimer
This Information may change. Therefore, read the product information leaflet
provided with the product before using it !!
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