Norvasc

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Norvasc, do not take this medication.

Special warnings about Norvasc

Check with your doctor before you stop taking Norvasc, as a slow reduction in the dose may be needed.

Your doctor will prescribe Norvasc with caution if you have certain heart conditions or liver disease. Make sure the doctor is aware of all your medical problems before you start therapy with Norvasc.

Although very rare, if you have severe heart disease, you may experience an increase in frequency and duration of angina attacks, or even have a heart attack, when you are starting on Norvasc or your dosage is increased.

Safety and effectiveness in children less than 6 years old have not been established.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Norvasc

There are no known food or drug interactions with this medication.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Norvasc during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Norvasc should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Norvasc may appear in breast milk. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may tell you to discontinue breastfeeding your baby until your treatment with Norvasc is finished.

Recommended dosage for Norvasc

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Adults

The usual starting dose is 5 milligrams taken once a day. The most you should take in a day is 10 milligrams. If your doctor is adding Norvasc to other high blood pressure medications, the dose is 2.5 milligrams once daily. The lower 2.5-milligram starting dose also applies if you have liver disease.

Children 6 to 17 Years Old

The usual dose is 2.5 to 5 milligrams once a day. Doses exceeding 5 milligrams have not been studied in children.

Older Adults

You will be prescribed a lower starting dose of 2.5 milligrams.

ANGINA

Adults

The usual starting dose is 5 to 10 milligrams once daily. If you have liver disease, the lower 5-milligram dose will be used at the start.

Older Adults

The usual starting dose is 5 milligrams. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response to the drug.

Overdosage

Experience with Norvasc is limited; but if you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. The most likely symptoms are a drop in blood pressure and a faster heartbeat.