Amlodipine (norvasc)

INDEX Generic Name amlodipine

Peak

Trade Name Norvasc

Onset

NURS 2236 Clinical Form 3: Clinical Medications Worksheet (You will need to made additional copies of these forms) Classification Dose Route Time/Frequency antihypertensive

Duration

5mg

PO

qday

Normal Dosage Range 5-10mg qday

6-9hr unknown Why is your patient taking this medication? Hypertension

24 hr For IV meds, compatability with IV drips and/or solutions

Mechanism of action and indications Alone or with other agents in the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and vasospastic (Prinzmetal's) angina

Nursing Implications (what to focus on) Contraindications/warnings/interactions hypersensitivity, BP <90 mmHg; Use cautiously in: severe hepatic impairment (dosage reduction); geriatric patients (dosage reduction); aortic stenosis; history of CHF; pregnancy, lactation, or children

Systemic vasodilation resulting in decreased BP Coronary vasodilation resulting indecreased frequency and severity of attack of angina

Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC, or herbal medicines (ask patient specifically) fentanyl, antihypertensives, nitrates, alcohol, quinidine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, lithium

Nursing Process - Assessment (Pre-administration assessment Monitor BP and pulse, ECG for prolonged therapy; Daily weight; intake/output; signs of CHF; for angina assess location, duration, intensity, and precipitating factors of patient's anginal pain

Common side effects headache, dizziness, fatigue, peripheral edema, angina, bradycardia, hypotension, palpitations, gingival hyperplasia, nausea, flushing

Lab value alterations caused by medicine Total serum calcium concentrations are not affected by calcium channel blockers.

Be sure to teach the patient the following about this medication Monitor pulse, HR (call doctor if <50bpm); change position slowly (hypotension); may cause drowsiness or dizziness; good dental hygiene; avoid alcohol; OTC meds; irregular heart beats; dyspnea; swelling of hands and feet; nausea; constipation; headache; chest pain; shortness of breath; exercise restrictions; weight reduction; low-sodium diet; smoking cessation; stress management. Assessment Evaluation Why would you hold or not give Check after giving this med? Decrease in BP signs of CHF: peripheral edema, rales/ Decrease in frequency and severity of anginal crackles, dyspnea, weight gain, jugular attacks. venous distention. Decrease in need for nitrate therapy Increase in activity tolerance and sense of well-being