Amlodipine (Norvasc)
Generic Name of
Amlodipine (Norvasc):
Amlodipine
Indications for
Amlodipine (Norvasc)
Amlodipine assists in preventing high blood pressure or hypertension in dogs and cats. It inhibits the entry of calcium into muscle cells and causes the blood vessels to relax, thus reducing the blood pressure. Moreover, the drug also functions as a vasodilator drug, which helps in the treatment of congestive heart failure in dogs. The drug is also used to treat hypertension, particularly in cats suffering from kidney disease.
Precautions when using
Amlodipine (Norvasc)
Do not administer Amlodipine to animals with extreme hypersensitivity to the drug. Amlodipine also exhibits the tendency to interact with other medications such as diuretics, which results in low blood pressure. Before administering the medicine to the pet, pet owners should consult a veterinarian to determine the medications that should be avoided in animals that having hypertension. Certain drugs such as phenylpropanolamine (PPA) and asthma medications can create high blood pressure. Monitor blood pressure at regular intervals during treatment.
Side Effects of
Amlodipine (Norvasc)
Amlodipine can create numerous side effects in animals. Quite frequently, a missed dose can lead to a spontaneous increase in blood pressure, ultimately resulting in blindness, kidney damage, seizures, or collapse. Some other side effects of the medicine include drowsiness, dizziness, loss of appetite, weight loss, collapse, or a rapid or slow heart rate. One of the most important side effects of the drug is low blood pressure or ‘Hypotension’ caused by increased dilation of arteries, resulting in depression, weakness or even fainting.
Dosage for
Amlodipine (Norvasc)
Amlodipine is usually available in 2.5 and 5 mg tablets. The usual dosage for cats is 1/4 of a 2.5 mg tablet once daily orally for controlling blood pressure. However, an extremely high dose of 1/2 of a 2.5 mg tablet twice daily is given for effective control. Dogs are generally administered 0.025 to 0.05 mg per pound once daily or 2.5 mg/dog, orally.
Brand Names of
Amlodipine (Norvasc)
Norvasc
