Why take it? Here is a detailed answer:
amlodipine besylate (amlō´dipēn bes´
lāt),
n brand name: Norvasc;
drug class: calcium channel blocker;
action: inhibits calcium ion influx across cell membrane during cardiac depolarization; produces relaxation of coronary vascular smooth muscle and dilates coronary arteries; decreases SA/AV node conduction;
uses: hypertension as a single agent or in combination with other antihypertensives, chronic stable angina pectoris, vasospastic angina.
drug class: calcium channel blocker;
action: inhibits calcium ion influx across cell membrane during cardiac depolarization; produces relaxation of coronary vascular smooth muscle and dilates coronary arteries; decreases SA/AV node conduction;
uses: hypertension as a single agent or in combination with other antihypertensives, chronic stable angina pectoris, vasospastic angina.
Simply, decrease blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
Side effects?
CNS: headache, dizziness, drowsiness, light-headedness, fatigue, weakness, lethargy
CV: peripheral edema, angina, bradycardia, hypotension, palpitations
GI: nausea, abdominal discomfort
Musculoskeletal: muscle cramps, muscle pain or inflammation
Respiratory: shortness of breath, dyspnea, wheezing
Skin: rash, pruritus, urticaria, flushing
Side effects for me? Maybe fatigue, drowsiness. At times I feel my normal energy level is not here anymore - but what is normal?? I do not think I have any others.
At my check up in January I will be asking if I need to keep taking this med.
