Norvasc is in a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Norvasc relaxes (widens) the blood vessels (veins and arteries), making it easier for the heart to pump and reducing its workload. Norvasc is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and to treat angina (chest pain).

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Norvasc and contact your physician immediately: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); unusually fast or slow heartbeat; chest pain; severe dizziness or fainting; psychosis; jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or swelling of the legs or ankles. Other, less serious side effects include fatigue or tiredness; headache; insomnia; vivid or abnormal dreams; flushing; abdominal pain; nausea, diarrhea, or constipation; or increased or difficult urination. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your physician or pharmacist.

Tell your physician if you are taking any other heart medicines. Norvasc may compound the effects of other heart medications. Other drugs may also interact with Norvasc or affect your condition. Talk to your physician and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an Norvasc overdose include dizziness, weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, coma, slurred speech, and confusion.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

Take Norvasc exactly as directed by your physician. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not stop taking Norvasc without first talking to your physician, even if you begin to feel better. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.

Store Norvasc at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Before taking Norvasc, tell your physician if you have liver disease; or another disease of the heart or blood vessels such as sick sinus syndrome, aortic stenosis, heart failure, low blood pressure, or coronary artery disease. Do not take this medication without first talking to your physician if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Do not take this medication without first talking to your physician if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Norvasc. Your physician may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.