Amlodipine

Generic Name

Amlodipine

Trade Name

Norvasc

Indication

hypertension, angina

Action

blocks transport of calcium into muscle cells inhibiting excitation and contraction

Therapeutic Class

antihypertensive

Pharmacologic Class

Ca channel blocker

Nursing Considerations

may cause gingival hyperplasia

grapefruit juice may increase drug level

monitor blood pressure and pulse prior to and during therapy

monitor intake and output

assess for signs of CHF

assess characteristics of angina

instruct patient of interventions for hypertension and how to take blood pressure