Indications for Generic Norvasc
Norvasc or amlodipine besylate is a type of medication which belongs to a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It works by dilating the blood vessels and slowing the heart to lower blood pressure as well as relieve chest pain or angina.
Norvasc is generally prescribed for the treatment of angina and the regulation of blood pressure.
Norvasc can also be used for other conditions determined by your physician.
Important Information about Generic Norvasc
You should not take Norvasc if you have an allergy to amlodipine besylate or to any of its other ingredients.
You should not suddenly stop using Norvasc, unless directed by your physician. Before completely stopping, you might be advised to gradually reduce the dose to make sure that there would be no harmful effects to your health.
Make sure to inform your doctor of any special medical conditions that you have such as if you have liver disease or heart disease. If you have any, your dose might have to be adjusted.
If you are taking Norvasc or amlodipine besylate for the treatment of high blood pressure, then you need to use it regularly to be sure that it would be effective. However, because blood pressure usually declines gradually, it could take several weeks before you start experiencing the benefits of Norvasc.
Note that Norvasc should not be used as a cure for high blood pressure, as it merely helps to keep your blood pressure under control.
Norvasc belongs to the FDA pregnancy category C, which means that its effects on a developing baby have not yet been studied adequately. If you are pregnant before treatment, get pregnant during treatment, are trying to get pregnant or are breastfeeding, then make sure to tell your doctor right away.
Dosage and Administration of Generic Norvasc
Norvasc or amlodipine besylate should only be taken as it has been prescribed by your doctor for you. It could be used alone or with other prescribed drugs that help in controlling high blood pressure or angina.
The typical dose for adults 18 years and older is 5 to 10 mg taken once daily. Make sure to follow the prescription label for the exact dosing instructions.
Each dose could be taken with or without meals.
You should also continue taking it even if you are already starting to feel better.
If you miss a dose of Norvasc, you need to take it once you remember. However, if your next dose is almost up, you could just skip the one that you missed and then take the next scheduled one. You should never double your dose.
If you overdose on Norvasc, make sure to seek emergency medical help right away. Some symptoms of an overdose with Norvasc would include a sudden drop in blood pressure and a fast heart rate.
Possible Side Effects of Generic Norvasc
There are some side effects which are associated with the use of Norvasc or amlodipine besylate and these include fatigue, dizziness, swelling, fluid retention, palpitation and headaches.