Norvasc

Uses
Norvasc (Amlodipine Besylate) is indicated for hypertension and angina (chronic stable and prinzmetal's angina). Its therapeutic effects are achieved by inhibiting the movement of calcium through the calcium channels. Calcium can affect the cardiac and vascular smooth muscles, which affects the arteries and causes them to tighten (this process is known as vasodilation).

This medicine belongs to the calcium channel blocker group of medicines, and by slowing down the ability of calcium to move through the muscle cells, it is able to prevent the calcium from tightening the arteries. Because of this, the arteries become dilated and wider. This reduces resistance inside the veins, and leads to a reduction in blood pressure. Also, by widening the arteries, it helps to enhance the amount of oxygen that is supplied to the heart. Because of this, regular use may help to prevent or reduce angina attacks.

Dosage and Administration
Norvasc (Amlodipine Besylate) comes in tablet form, each of which has a medicine content of 10mg. Administration is by mouth. After thoroughly assessing your condition, a suitable dosage schedule will be calculated by your doctor, based on your individual requirements.

Adult hypertensive patients using this medicine for the reduction of high blood pressure may be told to start out with 5mg per day. The doctor may decide to increase this to 10mg depending on the response of the patient to treatment. Doctors generally prescribe a dosage regimen that ranges from 5mg to 10mg per day for patients affected by angina.

Side effects
Those who take Norvasc (Amlodipine Besylate) might suffer from side effects, including:

• Vertigo
• Headache
• Warm feeling
• Digestive upset
• Drowsy or tired feeling

All side effects have to be reported to your doctor. Patients need to bear in mind the fact that serious reactions may be possible in rare cases. You will need to go to the hospital immediately if you suffer from swelling that affects the limbs, peeling of the skin, visual problems or any other serious side effects that have not been mentioned here.

Precautions
Hypertensive patients may be provided with dietary control instructions and other measures to help control their condition.

This medicine is not instantly effective, and because of this, it will not work for an angina attack. Your doctor will discuss other treatment options for angina attacks.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Norvasc (Amlodipine Besylate) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.