Norvasc Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the generic name for Norvasc?

Amlodipine besylate

What drug class does Norvasc belong to?

Antihypertensive

What are the available dosage forms of Norvasc?

Tablets: 2.5, 5, 10 mg

What are the indications for using Norvasc?

Hypertension, chronic stable or vasospastic angina Signup and view all the answers

What is the starting dose of Norvasc for hypertension patients?

5 mg daily Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum daily dosage of Norvasc?

10 mg once a day Signup and view all the answers

What is the dosing for chronic stable or vasospastic angina patients?

10 mg once a day Signup and view all the answers

What is the mechanism of action of Norvasc?

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that inhibits the influx of calcium ions across slow channels in vascular smooth muscle more than in cardiac muscle. Signup and view all the answers

Match the specific effects of Norvasc:

Decrease in peripheral vascular resistance = Effect 1 Dilation of coronary arteries and arterioles = Effect 2 Inhibition of coronary spasm = Effect 3 Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take Norvasc to reach peak plasma levels?

6-12 hours Signup and view all the answers

How is Norvasc metabolized and excreted?

Amlodipine is metabolized in the liver and excreted in urine. Signup and view all the answers

What is the terminal half-life of Norvasc?

30-50 hours Signup and view all the answers

What drug interaction is noted with Norvasc?

May increase the plasma levels of simvastatin Signup and view all the answers

What are the contraindications/precautions for using Norvasc?

May cause rare increase in angina or myocardial infarction when starting or increasing dose; use with caution in patients with CHF and hepatic impairment. Pregnancy category C. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum dose of simvastatin when used with Norvasc?

20 mg Signup and view all the answers

What are the common adverse effects of Norvasc?

Edema, flushing, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain. Signup and view all the answers

What patient consultation points should be provided for Norvasc?

<ol> <li>May be taken without regard to meals. 2) Contact physician if adverse effects become severe. 3) Store in a cool, dry place. 4) If a dose is missed, take it ASAP. If taken within 12 hours of the next dose, skip the next dose and return to normal dosing schedule. 5) Do not take OTC cough and cold medicines without checking with physician or pharmacist. 6) Do not stop therapy unless directed by physician.</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Norvasc Overview

Norvasc is the brand name for amlodipine besylate, a medication primarily used to manage hypertension and certain types of angina.
Classified as an antihypertensive, Norvasc helps lower blood pressure and reduce heart workload.

Dosage Forms

Available in tablet form with dosages of 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg.

Indications

Indicated for the treatment of hypertension and chronic stable or vasospastic angina.

Dosing Recommendations

Initiate treatment in hypertension patients with a daily dose of 5 mg.
If Norvasc is combined with another antihypertensive, start at 2.5 mg daily and adjust as needed over 1-2 weeks.
Maximum recommended dosage is 10 mg per day, taken as a single dose.
For chronic stable or vasospastic angina, the optimal dose is 10 mg once daily.

Mechanism of Action

Acts as a calcium channel blocker, inhibiting calcium ion influx across vascular smooth muscle more than cardiac muscle.
Results in decreased peripheral vascular resistance, dilation of coronary arteries, and reduction of coronary spasms.

Pharmacokinetics

Peak plasma levels reached within 6-12 hours post-administration.
Metabolized in the liver and primarily excreted in urine.
Exhibits a terminal half-life of 30-50 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

Drug Interactions

Can elevate plasma levels of simvastatin when used concurrently.

Contraindications and Precautions

May provoke rare increases in angina or myocardial infarction during initiation or dose escalation.
Caution advised in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) and those with hepatic issues.
Classified as pregnancy category C, indicating potential risks.

Maximum Simvastatin Dosage

When used with Norvasc, the maximum dosage of simvastatin should not exceed 20 mg.

Adverse Effects

Common side effects include edema, flushing, headache, fatigue, and abdominal pain.

Patient Consultation Guidelines

Can be taken without regard to meals.
Advise patients to report severe side effects to their physician.
Instruct to store medication in a cool, dry place.
If a dose is missed, take as soon as possible unless it's close to the next scheduled dose; then, skip and return to the normal schedule.
Caution against using over-the-counter cough and cold medications without consulting healthcare providers.
Emphasize the importance of not discontinuing any therapy without physician guidance.

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Description

Test your knowledge on Norvasc, also known as Amlodipine besylate. This quiz covers its generic name, drug class, dosage forms, and indications. Perfect for students or healthcare professionals looking to reinforce their understanding of this antihypertensive medication.