Amlodipine, sold under the brand name of Norvasc, is a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and chest pain (angina). It works to dilate your blood vessels so that an adequate amount of blood can flow through your body and heart, according to Drugs.com. When you are taking amlodipine, you should move slowly from a sitting or lying position as you can develop dizziness and seriously hurt yourself. In order to understand the negative aspects of amlodipine, you should review its medical side effects.
Effects on Your Heart
Amlodipine can lead to changes in your heart rate, says RxList.com. It may slow your heart rate when you experience bradycardia or cause you to have irregular rhythms called arrythmias. Amlodipine can also quicken your heart rate (tachycardia), and fainting spells called syncope may occur. In some instances, amlodipine can cause chest pain, dizziness or an infection of your blood vessels called vasculitis.
Allergic Reaction
If you take amlodipine and develop an allergic reaction, you may experience trouble breathing, itchy skin swellings called hives and have swelling of your face, lips and throat. An allergic reaction is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. If no attention is sought, you may go into shock or even die.
Effects on Your Digestive System
Amlodipine can affect your digestive system and lead to dysphagia (trouble swallowing), indigestion, flatulence (gas) and vomiting, according to RxList.com. You may develop an eating disorder known as anorexia and limit your food intake to maintain a thin body image.
Overdose
Amlodipine can also become harmful and even lethal if you take more tablets than your doctor prescribes. Symptoms of an overdose include extreme dizziness, fainting and a warm or tingly feeling, according to Drugs.com.
Other Side Effects
Amlodipine can severely affect your muscles and cause pain or cramping. This is a very uncomfortable condition that your doctor can help treat. You may also develop psychiatric problems and feel depressed, anxious or nervous. In some cases, you may develop nose bleeds, dry mouth and changes in your blood sugar or blood cell counts. It is important you see your doctor regularly so she can monitor you for these specific side effects.
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