Norvasc Amlodipine 10 mg x10 Tablets
Amlodipine 10 mg tablets are a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain (angina). This medicine helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks. It is available over the counter in Nigeria.
What it is
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. This helps lower high blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart.
What it's used for
Amlodipine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults and children 6 years and older. It is also used for chronic stable angina (chest pain due to narrowed heart arteries), vasospastic angina (Prinzmetal's angina), and in patients with coronary artery disease who do not have heart failure or low ejection fraction.
Common side effects
The most common side effects include swelling of the ankles or feet (edema), dizziness, flushing, palpitations (feeling of rapid or irregular heartbeat), fatigue, and nausea. These side effects often occur more with higher doses.
Important cautions
Do not take amlodipine if you are allergic to it. Symptomatic low blood pressure (hypotension) can occur, especially in patients with severe aortic stenosis. Rarely, worsening chest pain or a heart attack may happen after starting or increasing the dose, particularly in patients with severe coronary artery disease. Patients with severe liver disease should be started on a low dose and titrated slowly. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions or take other medications.
Frequently asked questions
What is amlodipine used for?
Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain (angina). It helps lower blood pressure to reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
What are the common side effects of amlodipine?
Common side effects include swelling in the legs or ankles, dizziness, flushing, palpitations, tiredness, and nausea. These are usually mild and may go away as your body adjusts.
Can I buy amlodipine without a prescription in Nigeria?
Yes, amlodipine 10 mg tablets are classified as an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine in Nigeria, so you can purchase them without a prescription. However, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.
How should I take amlodipine?
Take amlodipine by mouth once daily at the same time each day. The typical starting dose for adults is 5 mg, but your doctor may adjust it. Do not chew or crush the tablet; swallow it whole with water.
What precautions should I take when using amlodipine?
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, severe narrowing of the aortic valve (aortic stenosis), or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice as it may affect the medicine. Do not stop taking amlodipine suddenly without medical advice.
This information is for general guidance only and is not medical advice. Please consult your physician or pharmacist before using any medication.
