Norvasc is a brand for amlodipine, a medication in the dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers. Dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers work on the smooth muscles in the walls of the artery, but not the heart muscles. By working to relax the peripheral arterioles Norvasc lowers blood pressure. Unlike the non-dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers Norvasc does not have much effect on the electrical conduction through the atrio-ventricular node, so is not effective at controlling rapid abnormal heart rates like are seen in atrial fibrillation and PSVT.

Norvasc dosage is often begun at 5 mg. once daily, although sometimes a lower Norvasc dosage of 2.5 mg once daily is used. The maximum Norvasc dosage is 10mg daily. For people who have liver problems Norvasc dosage has to be adjusted and reduced to prevent adverse affects. Norvasc is also available in a combination product called Caduet™ with atorvastatin in patients who require both Norvasc and a statin in order to only have to take a single pill daily. In these cases the Norvasc dosage as well as the atorvastatin dosage is selected by the prescribing physician.

Potential side effects of Norvasc include swelling and general feeling of tiredness. While some patients may experience headaches and flushing; rarely muscle cramps and constipation occurs as a side effect. Other side effects include frequent urination, increased heart rate. When a severe rash occurs it is important to consult a doctor to see if the rash might be Stevens- Johnson syndrome, a more serious allergic type of rash.