Side Effects of Norvas

Norvasc is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure, which also is known as hypertension. The medicine is classified as a calcium channel blocker, and functions by enlarging the blood vessels and slowing down the heart in order to decrease the blood pressure. This medicine is also commonly used to treat angina (a medical condition that is characterized by chest pains due to low oxygen levels). Norvasc users may experience some possible side effects of Norvasc.

Common Side Effects

• Norvasc has common side effects that are usually considered minor because they tend to subside rapidly as the body adapts to the medication. If you have any of these side effects, however, and they are especially persistent, or get worse with time, you need to consult your doctor as soon as possible. These common side effects are weakness, dizziness, exhaustion, drowsiness, muscle cramps, flushing, nausea and stomachache.

Serious Side Effects

• Some serious side effects can occur with the use of Norvasc. In cases of serious side effects, it is crucial to seek emergency medical assistance as soon as possible, as they could lead to potentially harmful consequences. These side effects include the skin or the eyes becoming yellow (jaundice), chest pounding, the legs or the feet swelling up, darker colored urine, irregular or rapid heartbeat, increasing chest ache, swollen or bleeding gums, and trouble breathing.

Allergic Reactions

• Severe allergic reactions to Norvasc are rare, but when they do happen, they can be dangerous. If you think that you are experiencing an allergic reaction to this calcium channel blocker, you need to immediately seek medical help. Some signs of allergic reaction to Norvasc are chest heaviness or tightness, hives, skin rash, itchiness, problems breathing, and swelling of the lips, mouth, face or tongue.

Caution

• Norvasc is not a safe or appropriate medication for everybody. You should inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies that you might have, as well as your full medical history. Your doctor must also be aware of any and all medicines or dietary supplements you are taking. This is particularly important for those with liver disease, congestive heart failure, pregnant and nursing females, and those taking beta-blocker drugs (like Corgard, Tenormin, Zebeta, and Blocadren). These factors might call for not using Norvasc at all, or specialized testing or dosage changes in order to do so safely.

Overdose

• If you are worried that you have taken more than the appropriate, recommended dosage of Norvasc, it is very possible that you may have overdosed. Overdosing on this medication can be harmful, so it is vital to seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible. Some symptoms of Norvasc overdose include extreme dizziness, passing out and feeling tingly or warm.