Amlodipine (Generic Name)
Other Names: Norvasc®

Dosage form

Oral tablets: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg

About this drug

Amlodipine (am-LOW-di-peen) is used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), or heart failure. It is known as a calcium channel blocker.

 

Side effects

Common side effects are:

  • Swelling of ankles, feet, or lower legs
  • Headache
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness. Be careful while taking this drug. Driving and using machines can be dangerous if you are not alert.

 

Rare side effects include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Irregular heart beat
  • Constipation

If any of these side effects becomes severe or bothers you, call your doctor. Do not take over-the-counter medicine for your symptoms.

Drug interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medicines or herbal products that you are taking. He or she can check for drug interactions.

 

If you miss a dose

If you miss a medicine dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at its scheduled time, and continue your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double up” on doses to catch up.

 

How to take this medicine

Take this medicine with fluids at the same time every day, unless your doctor tells you otherwise. You may take it with or without food. Do not stop taking this drug unless your doctor tells you to.

Date: _________________________________
Name of drug: _________________________
Dosage: _______________________________
Frequency: ____________________________

 

Revised July 2011.

©  UPMC | Affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences
Supplemental content provided by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions. All rights reserved.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

UPMC is an equal opportunity employer. UPMC policy prohibits discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, genetics, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected group status. Further, UPMC will continue to support and promote equal employment opportunity, human dignity, and racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity. This policy applies to admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in UPMC programs and activities. This commitment is made by UPMC in accordance with federal, state, and/or local laws and regulations.

Medical information made available on UPMC.com is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely entirely on this information for your health care needs. Ask your own doctor or health care provider any specific medical questions that you have. Further, UPMC.com is not a tool to be used in the case of an emergency. If an emergency arises, you should seek appropriate emergency medical services.

For UPMC Mercy Patients: As a Catholic hospital, UPMC Mercy abides by the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services, as determined by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. As such, UPMC Mercy neither endorses nor provides medical practices and/or procedures that contradict the moral teachings of the Roman Catholic Church.

© UPMC
Pittsburgh, PA, USA UPMC.com