Medications for Both High Blood Pressure & High Cholesterol

In 2004, the Pfizer Pharmaceutical Co. made Caduet available for prescription treatment of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. To date this is the only medication available for the treatment of both conditions available in the United States.

Active Ingredients in Caduet

• Caduet contains the active ingredient amlodipine besylate, which is used in the prescription medication Norvasc to treat high blood pressure. It also contains atorvastatin calcium, the active ingredient in the prescription medication Lipitor, used to treat high cholesterol.

Dosages

• Caduet may be taken with out without food. The proper dosage for you will be determined by your doctor according to your blood pressure readings and cholesterol counts. It is taken once a day by mouth.

Side Effects of Caduet

• According to the manufacturer of Caduet, common side effects may include swelling, dizziness and headache. Pfizer claims that these side effects may be reduced after your body adjusts to the medication.

Atorvastatin and Amlodipine Side Effects

• The Mayo Clinic warns that side effects from atorvastatin, the ingredient used to lower cholesterol may include cough, dizziness, rapid heartbeat and unusual tiredness or weakness. The most common side effect from amlodipine, used to treat high blood pressure, is headache.

Precautions for Caduet

• Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take Caduet. Your doctor may monitor your liver functions through blood tests while you are taking Caduet. Do not take niacin supplements without consulting with your doctor. If you experience severe muscle pain or fatigue, tell you doctor. In rare cases, Caduet can affect kidney function. Do not stop taking Caduet without the supervision of your doctor. Your doctor may want to decrease your dosage slowly to wean your system off of the medication.