Norvasc

Uses

Norvasc contains amlodipine besylate that helps widen the arteries, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Norvasc is the most widely used medication to treat high blood pressure, and is also used to treat angina or chest pains.

Dosage instructions

Norvasc comes in the form of a tablet that has to be taken once daily with milk or food. If you use salt substitutes, inform your doctor without fail. Your doctor may prescribe a low sodium diet which must be followed stringently.

Warnings

If you suffer from liver disease, sick sinus syndrome or heart and blood vessel diseases, aortic stenosis, low blood pressure, heart failure, or coronary artery disease, inform your doctor. He will be able to monitor your schedule, and will be able to alter your dosage schedule appropriately. This medication falls under the FDA’s pregnancy category C. this means that it’s unknown if the medication will cause harm to an unborn fetus. If you are pregnant or are trying to conceive, consult your doctor before starting Norvasc. Also, consult your doctor about possible effects if you breast feed.

Missed dosage

If you miss a dose, take the pill as soon s you remember. If it’s too close to the next dose, simply skip that dose and go on to the next dose. Don’t increase your medication to make up for the missed dose.

Side effects

If you notice headaches, flushes, abdominal pain, insomnia, fatigue, painful urination or increased frequency of urination, nausea, vomiting, or severe diarrhea, continue to take Norvasc and consult your physician as soon as possible. If you notice any accelerated or slow heartbeat, jaundice, dizziness or fainting, hives, throat constrictions, shortness of breath, swelling of the face, tongue and lips, psychosis, chest pain, or swelling of the legs or ankles, stop taking Norvasc immediately, and seek prompt emergency medical attention.

Storage

Keep Norvasc stored in a tight container and store at temperatures between 59 degrees to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, fainting, chest pain, confusion, accelerated or unusually slow heartbeat, and slurred speech. The victim may even fall into a coma. Norvasc overdose can cause peripheral vasodilatation with marked hypotension.