Generic Norvasc

Norvasc, which is generically prescribed as almodipine, is commonly used to treat hypertension and angina. Norvasc is a member of the family of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, and it works by relaxing and opening the veins and arteries in order to allow the heart to pump easier as a result of easier blood flow.

Norvasc is not appropriate for everyone. A thorough medical history should be assessed prior to prescribing this medication. Patients with a medical history which includes liver disease, low blood pressure, sick sinus syndrome, heart failure, coronary artery disease, aortic stenosis, or any other heart condition may not be able to take Norvasc or may require careful monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with Norvasc, depending on the condition or the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administration rated this medication as a pregnancy risk category C. It has yet to be determined whether or not this medication will cause harm or birth defects in an unborn baby. It has yet to be determined whether or not Norvasc will pass through the mother’s breast milk and affect a nursing baby. The prescribing physician should avoid prescribing this medication to a pregnant or nursing woman, or a woman who is likely to become pregnant.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Norvasc, some of which are severe. A patient experiencing a serious side effect or an allergic reaction should seek immediate emergency medical attention. An allergic reaction will result in symptoms that include facial swelling, including swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, hives, and difficulty breathing. Other serious side effects which require emergency medical care include symptoms such as chest pain, slow heart beat, fast heart beat, chest pain, sever dizziness, fainting, psychosis, jaundice, or swelling of the legs and ankles.

Other less serious side effects typically do not require emergency medical attention but should be reported to the prescribing physician. Patients should be encouraged to report all side effects. Less serious side effects include symptoms such as headache, fatigue, insomnia, vivid dreams, flushing, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, increased urination, or difficulty urinating. Less serious side effects can often be reduced to a tolerable level by reducing the dosage of Norvasc.

Norvasc should be taken exactly as it has been prescribed. If the patient misses a dose, the dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid the potential for an overdose. Patients should never take a double dose of this medication. An overdose will present with symptoms which include shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness, chest pain, fainting, fast heart beat, slow heart beat, slurred speech, confusion, coma, or death.

There is a risk of negative drug interactions associated with Norvasc. A thorough medical history should be understood prior to prescribing this medication. Patients should be urged to inquire with the prescribing physician before taking any new medications, including over the counter medications and herbal remedies. Medications that have a known negative interaction with Norvasc include heart rhythm medication, blood pressure medication, and other heart related medications. Patients should continue to take Norvasc even if their symptoms improve. Prematurely stopping this medication can result in the worsening of the condition.