Everything You Need to Know About Blood Pressure Medication Norvasc
In the case that you experience high blood pressure or chest pain, it is likely that your doctor has recommended Norvasc. It is one of the most frequently prescribed medications for managing cardiovascular diseases. But what is it? How is it used? And what should you be cautious about? Let’s put everything you need to know about Norvasc using simple terms.
First thing first, what is Norvasc?
Norvasc is a brand name given to a certain drug under the class of medicines labeled as calcium channel blockers. Amlodipine is an example of Norvasc and it is commonly used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain (angina), and various forms of heart disease. People have been using it globally from the early 1990’s it is widely available.
Norvasc’s Mechanism of Action
Calcium is required for your heart and blood vessels to contract and tighten. Norvasc works by blocking calcium into heart and blood vessels. This relaxes the heart and blood vessels which in turn reduces the workload on the heart (the machine that drives the entire body). Resting greatly improves performance.
Imaging a highway being opened for blood, that is what Norvasc does, and in turn decreases the necessity for heart exertion.
Key Uses of Norvasc
High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
Norvasc is a common treatment for high blood pressure. It eases the arteries, reducing the forceful pumping needed to push blood through the heart.
Angina Pectoris (Chest Pain)
It is also useful for the management of chronic stable angina, which causes recurring chest pain due to insufficient blood flow to the heart.
Coronary Artery Disease
Norvasc may be of value in people with coronary artery disease by augmenting oxygen delivery to the heart, and thereby preventing episodes of chest pain.
How Norvasc helps manage hypertension
Hypertension can pose a risk of damaging your arteries and significant body organs. Norvasc assists by:
Reducing peripheral vascular resistance Lessening the workload on the heart Improving blood flow.
These factors increase the chances of avoiding strokes, heart attacks and kidney complications.
Angina relief with Norvasc
Angina is characterized by reduced blood supply to the heart muscles and Norvasc improves the blood supply, reducing the number and intensity of angina attacks. Norvasc does not relieve angina attacks, but it is effective in reducing the incidence of angina attacks.
Dosage and Administration
Norvasc is usually available in two strengths; 5 mg and 10 mg tablets. The prescribing physician will determine the dispensing dose from the prescribed amount depending on the patient’s condition and treatment response.
For adults with hypertension:
Initial dose is usually 5 mg taken once daily and may be increased to 10 mg.
For angina:
Starting dose is between 5-10 mg based on severity of condition.
Dosage Administration:
Norvasc should be taken once daily at the same time each day, with or without food.
Adverse Effects:
Unreported adverse effects tend to include mild side effects listed below:
Peripheral edema of legs and/ or ankles.
Headaches.
Generalized fatigue.
Dizziness.
Fever and/or blush.
Side Effects So Dangerous Must Progressively Seek Medical Aid:
Developing arrhythmias.
Inability to catch your breath.
Extreme vertigo or fainting.
Chest pains with increasing intensity.
Lesser Known Fact Of Using Norvasc Meds.
People with the following conditions should seek advice from their medical practitioner regarding Norvasc use.
Individuals with:
Hepatic disorders.
Pregnant and lactating women.
On other hypertensive medications due low blood pressure.
Drug And Food Interactions:
These groups are well documented as people who wish to lower their blood pressure, but overpowering Norvasc combines poorly with sudo-greens.
Norvasc’s bioavailability is increased with grapefruit juice, which should be avoided.
Inform the doctor of any vitamins or supplements taken.
Norvasc and Other Hypertension Medications
In comparison with beta blockers as well as ACE inhibitors, Norvasc:
Is easier on the sexual side of things
Doesn’t cause cough (like ACE inhibitors sometimes do)
Is well tolerated by older adults
Long-term managers and those who can’t handle other medications are often prescribed Norvasc.
Does Norvasc Help Prevent Heart Attacks?
Yes, indirectly. In conjunction with long-term usage, Norvasc tends to lower the likelihood of future heart attacks and strokes by easing the workload and lowering blood pressure.
Can You Take Norvasc With Other Medications?
Yes, Norvasc is popularly prescribed alongside:
ACE inhibitors
Diuretics
Statins
Though often these drugs should be avoided if they are not suggested in conjunction with:
Some antifungal medicines
Some antibiotics
Heart rhythm medication
Lifestyle Changes While on Norvasc
Medication is imperative to achieving the best results. To that note, when on Norvasc you should also:
Adhere to a diet with low sodium intake
Engage in exercise as able
Reduce stress
Restrict caffeine and alcohol consumption
Norvasc in Special Populations
Ageing Individuals
Most older individuals tolerate Norvasc well, but doctors usually start them on a lower dose.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Speak to your physician if expecting or nursing. Otherwise, it should only be used if essential.
Missed Dose or Overdose
What to do if you missed a dose:
Please remember to take it as soon as possible. In case the dosage period is close, then skip the missed dose. Dosing should not be doubled.
Symptoms of Overdose:
Seeking emergency help immediately will be prescribed.
Overdosing leads to the following symptoms:
- Sharp dizziness
- Fainting
- Relatively low heart rate
Conclusion
Like all medications taking Norvasc along with exercise and a healthy diet will yield the best results. There’s no medication out there that works without the patient actively managing his health. Norvasc is great for managing blood pressure and chest pain along with mild side effects, and for these reasons it has a reputation amongst people and doctors alike.
FAQs
Your doctor is best suited to answer these questions, other than him you can go speak with a health care provider.
- Can we say Norvasc takes quite some time to lower blood pressure?
Quite the opposite, 90% of patients will notice a positive change after the first week, only 10% will notice within 2-4 weeks. - Would Finland consider patients applying Norvasc a health risk?
Of course not, acute withdrawal leads to worsening the condition which is always a risk so without having consultation with a doctor the dosage should not be changed freely. - If I’d be using Norvasc would I develop excess weight?
Not with Norvasc at least, nor is it common, but if there is common retention of liquids then yes that’s one way. - Can Norvasc be taken at night?
Sure, you can take it anytime, just maintain the same time every day.
- Is Norvasc safe for long-term use?
Yes, it’s intended to be used for sustained control of hypertension and heart issues.
