Norvasc, also known as amlodipine, is a medication of the calcium channel blocker class. It is taken orally and used for the treatment of various cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain (angina pectoris) and Prinzmetal's angina. It causes decreased contractility of the heart muscle cells and artery dilation.
Increased Heart Rate
Often patients on Norvasc therapy will report rapid heart rate and palpitations. This is due to the dilation of the arteries that results from therapy, which causes a decrease in blood pressure. The heart's natural reaction to lower blood pressure is to increase its rate of pumping in order to raise blood pressure.
Swelling
Norvasc therapy also has the side effect of swelling, or edema, especially in the periphery of the body such as the limbs. This is also an effect of the arterial dilation which results in fluid leakage, especially in dependent parts of the body, such as the legs or feet.
Anaphylaxis
Anaphylactic reactions to Norvasc can occur, just like with any other medication. Symptoms include swelling, urticaria (or hives), itchiness, trouble breathing and dizziness. If anaphylaxis is suspected, discontinuation of medication and consultation with a medical professional is recommended.
Fatigue and Headache
Patients on Norvasc therapy may also notice increased incidence of headache and a feeling of fatigue. This can be a result of lowered blood pressure, which results when the arteries are dilated from Norvasc use. This can lead to decreased blood flow to organs such as the brain which manifests as fatigue or malaise, and headache.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Norvasc therapy also has an increased incidence of gastrointestinal effects. The most commonly reported ones are nausea, abdominal pain and an upset stomach.
Facial Flushing
Norvasc can cause facial flushing or redness in some patients. This is due to the dilation of the arteries, which results in the temporary redness, especially in the face where the vessels are close to the skin.
References
- "Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine, 8th Edition;" Libby; 2007
- "Conn's Current Therapy 2010, 1st Edition;" Bope; 2009
- Norvasc (amlodipine) package insert. New York, NY: Pfizer Labs; 2005 Mar.
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