# Amlodipine Besylate (Norvasc)

Source: https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs/amlodipine-besylate
Data: FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA, refreshed periodically

## What is Amlodipine Besylate?

Amlodipine Besylate (brand name: Norvasc) is a calcium channel blocker. It is prescribed to treat hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina pectoris. Across the United States, 333,000 doctors prescribe Amlodipine to approximately 13.9 million Medicare patients, making it one of the top 2 most prescribed drugs in America.

## Brand names

Norvasc

## Indications

Amlodipine Besylate is prescribed for several conditions including hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina pectoris, among others.

## Conditions treated

- [Hypertension](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/hypertension)
- [Coronary Artery Disease](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/coronary-artery-disease)
- [Angina Pectoris](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/angina-pectoris)
- [Variant Angina](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/variant-angina)

## Mechanism of action

Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (calcium channel blocker) that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. Experimental data suggest that amlodipine binds to both dihydropyridine and nondihydropyridine binding sites.

## Drug classification

- Established Pharmacologic Class: calcium channel blockers
- Route of administration: ORAL

## Common side effects

abdominal pain, edema, fatigue, nausea, somnolence

## Sources and disclaimers

- FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA dataset
- This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

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