Norvasc Side Effects

Norvasc is a medication commonly used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (angina). Like any medication, Norvasc can have side effects. Here are some common and less common side effects of Norvasc include.

Common Side Effects

• Swelling of the ankles, feet, or legs (peripheral edema): Norvasc can cause fluid retention in the extremities, leading to swelling.
• Flushing or feeling warm: Some people may experience Norvasc, a sensation of warmth or flushing, especially in the face.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Norvasc can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up quickly.
• Palpitations: Some individuals may experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect but are often temporary and mild.
• Fatigue: Norvasc may cause tiredness or fatigue in some individuals.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea or stomach discomfort.

Less Common Side Effects

• Gingival (gum) hyperplasia: This refers to an overgrowth of the gums and is a less common side effect.
• Fluctuations in blood pressure: Norvasc is a calcium channel blocker that can cause changes in blood pressure, and some individuals may experience fluctuations.
• Muscle cramps or weakness: Norvasc may rarely cause muscle-related symptoms such as cramps or weakness.
• Joint pain: Some people may experience joint pain as a side effect of Norvasc.
• Allergic reactions: While rare, allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue can occur.
• Liver problems: Norvasc may affect liver function in some individuals, leading to abnormal liver enzyme levels.
• Visual changes: Although uncommon, some people may experience visual disturbances while taking Norvasc.
• Increased urination: Norvasc may affect kidney function in rare cases, leading to increased urination.
• Mood changes: Some individuals may experience mood swings or changes in mood while taking Norvasc.

Norvasc is one of the leading brands of Amlodipine Besylate, manufactured and marketed by Pfizer Laboratories Inc.

Presently, Norvasc is available in tablet form.

Norvasc Tablets : 5mg and 10mg strengths.

1. CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Norvasc is metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP3A4. Drugs that inhibit CYP3A4 can increase the concentration of Norvasc in the body, potentially leading to higher levels of the drug and an increased risk of side effects. Common CYP3A4 inhibitors include certain antifungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) and some macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin).
2. CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs that induce CYP3A4 may decrease the effectiveness of Norvasc by increasing its metabolism. Examples of CYP3A4 inducers include rifampin (an antibiotic) and certain anticonvulsant medications.
3. Beta-blockers: When Norvasc is combined with beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol, atenolol), they may enhance the antihypertensive effects, but caution is required to prevent excessive lowering of blood pressure.
4. ACE Inhibitors and Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs): Norvasc is sometimes combined with ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril) or ARBs (e.g., losartan) to achieve a more comprehensive blood pressure control. However, close monitoring is necessary, as combining these medications may lead to an increased risk of hypotension (low blood pressure).
5. Lithium: Norvasc may increase lithium levels in the blood, potentially leading to lithium toxicity. Close monitoring of lithium levels is advised when these medications are used together.
6. Sildenafil (Viagra) and Tadalafil (Cialis): When Norvasc is taken with erectile dysfunction medications like sildenafil or tadalafil, there may be an additive effect on lowering blood pressure. Caution is advised, especially in individuals with pre-existing low blood pressure.