Proprietary Name: Amlodipine Besylate 
Non-Proprietary Name: Amlodipine Besylate 

 Drug Use Information

 Amlodipine is used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Amlodipine belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Amlodipine is also used to prevent certain types of chest pain (angina). It may help to increase your ability to exercise and decrease the frequency of angina attacks. It should not be used to treat attacks of chest pain when they occur. Use other medications (such as sublingual nitroglycerin) to relieve attacks of chest pain as directed by your doctor.

ADMINISTRATION ROUTE(S)

• Oral - Administration to or by way of the mouth.

What is Amlodipine Besylate?
Amlodipine Besylate is a prescription medication used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

Who is it for?
Amlodipine Besylate is for dogs and cats.

What are the benefits?

How does Amlodipine Besylate work?
Amlodipine Besylate is a calcium channel blocker. It works by blocking the calcium needed for muscle contraction in the arteries. Its overall effect is to relax the arterial muscles so that they dilate and the blood pressure within them drops.

Is there a generic equivalent available?
This is a generic medication.

How is it given?
Amlodipine Besylate tablets are given orally. They can be given with food. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. It is very important that you do not miss a dose. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. This medication should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed.

What results can I expect?
Amlodipine Besylate works to lower the blood pressure, but must be given on a continual basis to achieve the desired effect. Missing a dose will allow the blood pressure to increase.

What form(s) does it come in?
This medication comes in tablet form.

Please click on "More Information" for possible drug and food interactions with this medication.

Brand Name
Norvasc

Pronunciation
am-load-uh-peen bez-uh-late

Common Drug Name
Amlodipine Besylate

What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Amlodipine Besylate?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition.

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has heart or liver disease, is pregnant or may be pregnant or used for breeding.

Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking. Also if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.

What should I do if I miss a dose?
It is very important that you do not miss a dose. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.

What is the most important information I should know?
It is very important that you do not miss a dose.

Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to it. Use with caution in animals with heart failure or liver disease. Do not use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating females.

What side effects may be seen when taking Amlodipine Besylate?
In cats, side effects are rare. You may see lethargy (drowsiness), loss of appetite, weight loss, or rapid heart rate. In dogs, you may see these same effects. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the above side effects.

If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
Should overdose occur, you may see staggering (dizziness), collapse, or very rapid or very slow heart rate. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What should I avoid when giving my pet Amlodipine Besylate?
Consult your veterinarian before using amlodipine with vitamins, supplements, aspirin, with diuretics (e.g., furosemide, salix), certain heart medications called beta-blockers (e.g., propanolol, atenolol), and other medications that also lower blood pressure, since interactions may occur.