Amlodipine
Blood pressureAlso known as Norvasc
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker. It relaxes the muscles in your artery walls so blood flows with less resistance, lowering your blood pressure and easing chest pain (angina) for some people. It's long-acting, so one daily dose covers the full 24 hours.
How to take it
When
Once a day, any time that's easy to remember — just keep it consistent.
Food
With or without food.
Avoid
Standing up too fast when you first start. Alcohol can also drop your pressure further — go easy.
How long
Long-term. Don't stop suddenly without talking to your doctor.
Missed a dose?
Take it when you remember the same day. If it's been more than 12 hours, skip it and take the next dose on schedule. Don't double up.
Common side effects
- Swollen ankles or feet — the most common one; mention it to your doctor if it bothers you
- Flushing or feeling warm
- Headache or dizziness, usually early on
Call a doctor if
- Chest pain that's new or getting worse
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- A fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.