Norvasc, the trade name for the drug amlodipine, belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers that cause blood vessels in the periphery to dilate or widen. This effect treats a number of conditions, including high blood pressure and established chest pain. Common side effects include swelling of the feet and ankles and headaches, according to Pfizer. People with known liver failure or congestive heart failure should confirm with their doctor whether Norvasc is safe to use.
High Blood Pressure
Calcium channel blockers such as Norvasc cause relaxation of blood vessel walls. This causes a decrease in the pressure of blood against the blood vessel wall and an overall decrease in blood pressure. It can be used as a first-line medicine to treat high blood pressure or in combination with other drugs, especially if you have known coronary artery disease. Studies indicate that the use of Norvasc in some situations may decrease the incidence of chest pain requiring hospitalization, according to manufacturer Pfizer.
Chest Pain
Widening of the coronary arteries, the arteries that supply blood to the cardiac muscle, can relieve certain types of chest pain. Relaxation of the blood vessel walls allows more blood to flow through these vessels and deliver more oxygen to the cardiac tissue. Pzifer states this drug is useful for people with chronic, stable chest pain with exertion and vasospastic or Prinzmetal's chest pain that has been established by extensive testing by your doctor.
Pulmonary Hypertension
Lung diseases which lower the amount of oxygen in your blood such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can cause constriction of the pulmonary arteries. Calcium channel blockers such as Norvasc can be used to relax the pulmonary vessel wall and prevent over-working the cardiac muscle compensating for low oxygen levels.
Common Side Effects
Side effects of calcium channel blockers such as Norvasc can cause fluid accumulation and swelling in your feet and ankles, according to Pfizer. This side effect is not life-threatening. You should let your doctor know at your next appointment. Other side effects include dizziness, headache and fatigue. These side effects are thought to arise as your body gets used to a lower blood pressure. You should let your doctor know if these side effects haven't improved at your next visit.
