What is amlodipine or Norvasc?

Norvasc (amlodipine) works well to lower blood pressure and is a first-line option for many people. It can also help with chest pain (angina). Some people get swelling of the hands and legs while taking this medication.

COMMON BRANDS

Norvasc

DRUG CLASS

Calcium channel blocker (CCB)

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE CLASSIFICATION

Not a controlled medication

GENERIC STATUS

Lower-cost generic available

AVAILABILITY

Prescription only

What is Norvasc (amlodipine)?
How Norvasc (amlodipine) works

Norvasc (amlodipine) is a calcium channel blocker (CCB). It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the heart muscle and your blood vessels. Your heart gets more oxygen and doesn't have to work as hard to pump, which can also help with chest pain.
What is Norvasc (amlodipine) used for?

    High blood pressure (hypertension)
    Chest pain (angina)

Norvasc (amlodipine) dosage forms
tablet icon
tablet
2.5mg
5mg
10mg
Typical dosing for Norvasc (amlodipine)

The typical dose of Norvasc (amlodipine) is 5 mg to 10 mg by mouth once a day. You may be taking a lower dose (2.5 mg) if you are of lower body weight, older, or have liver disease.
 

Pros and cons of Norvasc (amlodipine)

Pros

Thumbs UpNorvasc (amlodipine) is a first-choice blood pressure medicine for many people.

Thumbs UpCalcium channel blockers, such as Norvasc (amlodipine), work especially well for black people to lower blood pressure.

Thumbs UpLowers the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with high blood pressure.

Thumbs UpCan prevent heart-related chest pain (angina) if you take it regularly.

Thumbs UpEach dose lasts longer than other calcium channel blockers, which keeps blood pressure steady without big ups and downs.

Cons

Thumbs DownCalcium channel blockers can cause swelling in your legs. If this happens for you, it probably won't get better over time, so talk to your doctor about other blood pressure medications if this bothers you.

Thumbs DownWomen are more likely than men to have side effects (especially swelling) from Norvasc (amlodipine).

Thumbs DownIf you have severe heart disease, using Norvasc (amlodipine) might increase your risk of chest pain or heart attack during the time right after starting the medication or raising the dosage.

Thumbs DownNorvasc (amlodipine) is not a good choice if you have heart failure or liver disease.