Norvasc 5 mg tabl. #30

What is the active ingredient in Norvasc?

Amlodipine besylate

What are the therapeutic indications for Norvasc?

Hypertension, Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), Chronic Stable Angina

How does Norvasc work?

Blocks the entry of calcium ions into heart and vascular smooth muscle cells, relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.

What are the contraindications for Norvasc?

Known hypersensitivity to dihydropyridines or any of the inactive ingredients in the tablets.

What are the special warnings and precautions for use with Norvasc?

Renal Failure: Can be used at normal doses. Heart Failure: Long-term use in patients with NYHA Class II and IV heart failure of nonischemic etiology may increase pulmonary edema risk. Hepatic Impairment: Half-life is prolonged. Dosage adjustments may be needed, caution is advised.

What are the possible side effects of Norvasc?

Common: Headaches, dizziness, somnolence, palpitations, flushing, abdominal pain, nausea, edema, fatigue. Less Common: Leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, hyperglycaemia, insomnia, mood changes, hypertonia, hypoaesthesia, paraesthesia, peripheral neuropathy, syncope, dysgeusia, tremor, extrapyramidal disorder, visual impairment, tinnitus, hypotension, vasculitis, cough, dyspnoea, rhinitis, change in bowel habits, dry mouth, dyspepsia, gingival hyperplasia, pancreatitis, vomiting, alopecia, hyperhidrosis, skin discolouration, urticaria, arthralgia, back pain, muscle spasms, myalgia, pollakiuria, micturition disorder, nocturia, gynaecomastia, erectile dysfunction, asthenia, malaise, pain, weight increase/decrease. Rare: Allergic reactions, hepatitis, jaundice, hepatic enzyme elevations, cholestasis. Rarely Reported: Myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, chest pain.

How is Norvasc dosed?

Hypertension and Angina: 5 mg once daily, can be increased to 10 mg max. Coronary Artery Disease: 5 mg to 10 mg once daily. Pediatric Patients (Ages 6-17 years): 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily. Elderly Patients: Normal dosage regimens. Hepatic Impairment: Caution advised, dosage adjustments may be needed.

How does Norvasc interact with other drugs?

CYP3A4 Inhibitors: May significantly increase amlodipine plasma concentrations. CYP3A4 Inducers: May decrease amlodipine plasma concentrations. Clarithromycin: Increased risk of hypotension, close observation needed. Simvastatin: Limit simvastatin dose to 20 mg daily when taken with Norvasc. Grapefruit Juice: Avoid. Digoxin: No significant changes observed. Ethanol (Alcohol): No significant effect. Warfarin: No significant effect. Cyclosporin: Monitor cyclosporin levels. Tacrolimus: Risk of increased tacrolimus blood levels. mTOR Inhibitors: Norvasc may increase exposure. Thiazide Diuretics, Beta-blockers, and ACE Inhibitors: No dosage adjustments required.

How should I store Norvasc tablets?

Store below 30°C. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

What is the expiry date and how should I dispose of unused Norvasc?

Do not use after the expiry date. Dispose of unused medication according to local requirements. Do not flush or put in household waste. Consult your pharmacist.