Norvasc is the brand name of amlodipine, a prescription drug used to treat high blood pressure and angina (chest pain). Norvasc is part of the family of drugs called calcium channel blockers.
Function
The heart muscle and the muscle that lines the blood vessels require calcium in order to contract. Norvasc relaxes these muscles by limiting the amount of calcium that enters the muscle cells.
Effects
When the muscle lining the blood vessels is relaxed, blood pressure decreases. Norvasc also slows the heart rate, which reduces chest pain by decreasing the amount of oxygen the heart needs.
Time Frame
Norvasc is a long-acting drug. It should be taken once daily, at the same time each day.
Considerations
The most common side effects of Norvasc are swelling of the ankles, headache, dizziness, stomach upset, tiredness, flushing, and rapid or irregular heartbeat. Do not stop taking Norvasc unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
Warning
Norvasc can make chest pain worse when you first begin taking it. If you have chest pain, go to the emergency room right away.
References
- About Norvasc
- Basic and Clinical Pharmacology; Bertram Katzung; 2007
