Amlodipine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Amlodipine (am-LOE-di-peen)

Treats high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). This medicine is a calcium channel blocker.

Brand Name(s):

Norvasc

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to amlodipine or to similar medicines (such as verapamil, Adalat®, Calan®, Cardizem®, Lotrel®, Plendil®, Procardia®).

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Dissolving Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
  • Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • There are many other medicines that can interact with amlodipine. Make sure your doctor knows about ALL other medicines you are using. This includes over-the-counter medicines that can increase your blood pressure (such as diet pills, cold and allergy medicines, or asthma medicines).
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, heart failure, stomach problems, or aortic stenosis (narrowing of a valve in your heart).
  • This medicine may make you dizzy or lightheaded. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Chest pain (may be related to your disease and not a side effect)
  • Dark yellow urine
  • Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
  • Swelling in the ankles or feet
  • Yellow eyes or skin
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Flushing and feeling warm
  • Headache
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort
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