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Norvasc

amlodipine besylate · Tablet

Prescription NDA TE AB RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Norvasc
Generic name
amlodipine besylate
Dosage form
Tablet
Route
Oral
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
3
NDC product codes
6
Packages
10
Data completeness
82% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Amlodipine Besylate 10 mg/1 999967 View
Amlodipine Besylate 2.5 mg/1 999967 View
Amlodipine Besylate 5 mg/1 999967 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Tablet
Route of administration
Oral
Presentations
16

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Calcium Channel Antagonists [MoA] MoA All 75 members
Calcium Channel Blocker [EPC] EPC All 55 members
Cytochrome P450 3A Inhibitors [MoA] MoA All 89 members
Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker [EPC] EPC All 49 members
Dihydropyridines [CS] CS All 49 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
019787
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
July 31, 1992
Sponsor
VIATRIS
Products on application
3
Submissions recorded
46
Products approved under application 019787.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
019787-001 NORVASC TABLET AMLODIPINE BESYLATE Prescription AB RLD
019787-002 NORVASC TABLET AMLODIPINE BESYLATE Prescription AB RLD
019787-003 NORVASC TABLET AMLODIPINE BESYLATE Prescription AB RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 019787.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 62 Labeling Approved October 30, 2017 Standard
Supplement 61 Labeling Approved March 30, 2017 Standard
Supplement 59 Labeling Approved March 23, 2015 Standard
Supplement 58 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved July 28, 2014 Standard
Supplement 56 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 12, 2013 Standard
Supplement 57 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved July 24, 2013 Standard
Supplement 54 Labeling Approved January 7, 2013 Unknown
Supplement 53 Labeling Approved January 7, 2013 Unknown
Supplement 55 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 16, 2012 Standard
Supplement 52 Labeling Approved October 31, 2011 Unknown
Supplement 47 Labeling Approved May 9, 2011 Unknown
Supplement 45 Labeling Approved February 17, 2010 Standard
Supplement 42 Labeling Approved October 31, 2007 Standard
Supplement 38 Efficacy Approved September 28, 2005 Unknown
Supplement 37 Labeling Approved July 13, 2005 Standard
Supplement 30 Efficacy Approved January 8, 2004 Standard
Supplement 27 Labeling Approved December 3, 2003 Standard
Supplement 31 Labeling Approved August 20, 2003 Standard
Supplement 32 Labeling Approved May 28, 2002 Standard
Supplement 29 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved August 13, 2001 Standard
Supplement 28 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved August 10, 2001 Standard
Supplement 24 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 6, 2000 Standard
Supplement 20 Efficacy Approved July 12, 2000 Standard
Supplement 17 Labeling Approved July 12, 2000 Standard
Supplement 23 Labeling Approved March 14, 2000 Standard
Supplement 25 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 23, 2000 Standard
Supplement 21 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 1, 2000 Standard
Supplement 22 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved December 15, 1999 Standard
Supplement 19 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved September 7, 1999 Standard
Supplement 18 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 4, 1999 Standard
Supplement 16 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 9, 1998 Standard
Supplement 15 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 16, 1997 Standard
Supplement 14 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 18, 1997 Standard
Supplement 13 Labeling Approved January 8, 1997 Standard
Supplement 12 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 28, 1996 Standard
Supplement 7 Efficacy Approved June 14, 1996 Standard
Supplement 10 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 8, 1996 Standard
Supplement 11 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 7, 1996 Standard
Supplement 9 Labeling Approved December 5, 1995 Standard
Supplement 8 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved November 2, 1995 Standard
Supplement 6 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved June 19, 1995 Standard
Supplement 5 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 7, 1995 Standard
Supplement 2 Labeling Approved January 12, 1995 Standard
Supplement 4 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 3, 1994 Standard
Supplement 3 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 3, 1994 Standard
Original application 1 Type 1 - New Molecular Entity Approved July 31, 1992 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · November 17, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · November 6, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · April 3, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · March 31, 2017
  • 0 · Supplement · April 9, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · March 25, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · January 8, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · January 8, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · January 7, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · January 7, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · November 2, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · October 31, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · May 11, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · May 9, 2011
  • 0 · Supplement · February 23, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · February 22, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · November 8, 2007
  • 0 · Supplement · November 7, 2007
  • 0 · Supplement · March 2, 2007
  • 0 · Supplement · October 20, 2005
  • 0 · Supplement · September 30, 2005
  • 0 · Supplement · July 15, 2005
  • 0 · Supplement · July 15, 2005
  • 0 · Supplement · June 10, 2004
  • 0 · Supplement · January 9, 2004
  • 0 · Supplement · December 8, 2003
  • 0 · Supplement · August 28, 2003
  • 0 · Supplement · August 5, 2003
  • 0 · Supplement · August 5, 2003
  • 0 · Supplement · August 5, 2003

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20230215). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20230215 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20190115

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE NORVASC is a calcium channel blocker and may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive and antianginal agents for the treatment of: • Hypertension ( 1.1 ) o NORVASC is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. • Coronary Artery Disease ( 1.2 ) o Chronic Stable Angina o Vasospastic Angina (Prinzmetal’s or Variant Angina) o Angiographically Documented Coronary Artery Disease in patients without heart failure or an ejection fraction < 40% 1.1 Hypertension NORVASC ® is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. These benefits have been seen in controlled trials of antihypertensive drugs from a wide variety of pharmacologic classes including NORVASC. Control of high blood pressure should be part of comprehensive cardiovascular risk management, including, as appropriate, lipid control, diabetes management, antithrombotic therapy, smoking cessation, exercise, and limited sodium intake. Many patients will require more than one drug to achieve blood pressure goals. For specific advice on goals and management, see published guidelines, such as those of the National High Blood Pressure Education Program’s Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC). Numerous antihypertensive drugs, from a variety of pharmacologic classes and with different mechanisms of action, have been shown in randomized controlled trials to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and it can be concluded that it is blood pressure reduction, and not some other pharmacologic property of the drugs, that is largely responsible for those benefits. The largest and most consistent cardiovascular outcome benefit has been a reduction in the risk of stroke, but reductions in myocardial infarction and cardiovascular mortality also have been seen regularly. Elevated systolic or diastolic pressure causes increased cardiovascular risk, and the absolute risk increase per mmHg is greater at higher blood pressures, so that even modest reductions of severe hypertension can provide substantial benefit. Relative risk reduction from blood pressure reduction is similar across populations with varying absolute risk, so the absolute benefit is greater in patients who are at higher risk independent of their hypertension (for example, patients with diabetes or hyperlipidemia), and such patients would be expected to benefit from more aggressive treatment to a lower blood pressure goal. Some antihypertensive drugs have smaller blood pressure effects (as monotherapy) in black patients, and many antihypertensive drugs have additional approved indications and effects (e.g., on angina, heart failure, or diabetic kidney disease). These considerations may guide selection of therapy. NORVASC may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. 1.2 Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Chronic Stable Angina NORVASC is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of chronic stable angina. NORVASC may be used alone or in combination with other antianginal agents. Vasospastic Angina (Prinzmetal’s or Variant Angina) NORVASC is indicated for the treatment of confirmed or suspected vasospastic angina. NORVASC may be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antianginal agents. Angiographically Documented CAD In patients with recently documented CAD by angiography and without heart failure or an ejection fraction <40%, NORVASC is indicated to reduce the risk of hospitalization for angina and to reduce the risk of a coronary revascularization procedure.

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Adult recommended starting dose: 5 mg once daily with maximum dose 10 mg once daily. ( 2.1 ) o Small, fragile, or elderly patients, or patients with hepatic insufficiency may be started on 2.5 mg once daily. ( 2.1 ) • Pediatric starting dose: 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily. ( 2.2 ) Important Limitation : Doses in excess of 5 mg daily have not been studied in pediatric patients. ( 2.2 ) 2.1 Adults The usual initial antihypertensive oral dose of NORVASC is 5 mg once daily, and the maximum dose is 10 mg once daily. Small, fragile, or elderly patients, or patients with hepatic insufficiency may be started on 2.5 mg once daily and this dose may be used when adding NORVASC to other antihypertensive therapy. Adjust dosage according to blood pressure goals. In general, wait 7 to 14 days between titration steps. Titrate more rapidly, however, if clinically warranted, provided the patient is assessed frequently. Angina : The recommended dose for chronic stable or vasospastic angina is 5–10 mg, with the lower dose suggested in the elderly and in patients with hepatic insufficiency. Most patients will require 10 mg for adequate effect. Coronary artery disease: The recommended dose range for patients with coronary artery disease is 5–10 mg once daily. In clinical studies, the majority of patients required 10 mg [see Clinical Studies (14.4) ] . 2.2 Children The effective antihypertensive oral dose in pediatric patients ages 6–17 years is 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily. Doses in excess of 5 mg daily have not been studied in pediatric patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.4) , Clinical Studies (14.1) ] .

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Tablets: 2.5 mg white, diamond, flat-faced, beveled edged, with “NORVASC” on one side and “2.5” on the other Tablets: 5 mg white, elongated octagon, flat-faced, beveled edged, engraved with both “NORVASC” and “5” on one side and plain on the other Tablets: 10 mg white, round, flat-faced, beveled edged, engraved with both “NORVASC” and “10” on one side and plain on the other • Tablets: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS NORVASC is contraindicated in patients with known sensitivity to amlodipine. • Known sensitivity to amlodipine ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Symptomatic hypotension is possible, particularly in patients with severe aortic stenosis. However, acute hypotension is unlikely. ( 5.1 ) • Worsening angina and acute myocardial infarction can develop after starting or increasing the dose of NORVASC, particularly in patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease. ( 5.2 ) • Titrate slowly in patients with severe hepatic impairment. ( 5.3 ) 5.1 Hypotension Symptomatic hypotension is possible, particularly in patients with severe aortic stenosis. Because of the gradual onset of action, acute hypotension is unlikely. 5.2 Increased Angina or Myocardial Infarction Worsening angina and acute myocardial infarction can develop after starting or increasing the dose of NORVASC, particularly in patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease. 5.3 Patients with Hepatic Failure Because NORVASC is extensively metabolized by the liver and the plasma elimination half‐life (t 1/2 ) is 56 hours in patients with impaired hepatic function, titrate slowly when administering NORVASC to patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Most common adverse reaction to amlodipine is edema which occurred in a dose related manner. Other adverse experiences not dose related but reported with an incidence >1.0% are fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and somnolence. ( Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer at 1-800-438-1985 or www.pfizer.com or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. NORVASC has been evaluated for safety in more than 11,000 patients in U.S. and foreign clinical trials. In general, treatment with NORVASC was well-tolerated at doses up to 10 mg daily. Most adverse reactions reported during therapy with NORVASC were of mild or moderate severity. In controlled clinical trials directly comparing NORVASC (N=1730) at doses up to 10 mg to placebo (N=1250), discontinuation of NORVASC because of adverse reactions was required in only about 1.5% of patients and was not significantly different from placebo (about 1%). The most commonly reported side effects more frequent than placebo are reflected in the table below. The incidence (%) of side effects that occurred in a dose related manner are as follows: Amlodipine Placebo 2.5 mg 5 mg 10 mg N=275 N=296 N=268 N=520 Edema 1.8 3.0 10.8 0.6 Dizziness 1.1 3.4 3.4 1.5 Flushing 0.7 1.4 2.6 0.0 Palpitation 0.7 1.4 4.5 0.6 Other adverse reactions that were not clearly dose related but were reported with an incidence greater than 1.0% in placebo-controlled clinical trials include the following: NORVASC (%) Placebo (%) (N=1730) (N=1250) Fatigue 4.5 2.8 Nausea 2.9 1.9 Abdominal Pain 1.6 0.3 Somnolence 1.4 0.6 For several adverse experiences that appear to be drug and dose related, there was a greater incidence in women than men associated with amlodipine treatment as shown in the following table: NORVASC Placebo Male=% Female=% Male=% Female=% (N=1218) (N=512) (N=914) (N=336) Edema 5.6 14.6 1.4 5.1 Flushing 1.5 4.5 0.3 0.9 Palpitations 1.4 3.3 0.9 0.9 Somnolence 1.3 1.6 0.8 0.3 The following events occurred in 0.1% of patients in controlled clinical trials or under conditions of open trials or marketing experience where a causal relationship is uncertain; they are listed to alert the physician to a possible relationship: Cardiovascular: arrhythmia (including ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation), bradycardia, chest pain, peripheral ischemia, syncope, tachycardia, vasculitis. Central and Peripheral Nervous System: hypoesthesia, neuropathy peripheral, paresthesia, tremor, vertigo. Gastrointestinal: anorexia, constipation, dysphagia, diarrhea, flatulence, pancreatitis, vomiting, gingival hyperplasia. General: allergic reaction, asthenia, These events occurred in less than 1% in placebo-controlled trials, but the incidence of these side effects was between 1% and 2% in all multiple dose studies. back pain, hot flushes, malaise, pain, rigors, weight gain, weight decrease. Musculoskeletal System: arthralgia, arthrosis, muscle cramps, myalgia. Psychiatric: sexual dysfunction (male and female), insomnia, nervousness, depression, abnormal dreams, anxiety, depersonalization. Respiratory System: dyspnea, epistaxis. Skin and Appendages: angioedema, erythema multiforme, pruritus, rash, rash erythematous, rash maculopapular. Special Senses: abnormal vision, conjunctivitis, diplopia, eye pain, tinnitus. Urinary System: micturition frequency, micturition disorder, nocturia. Autonomic Nervous System: dry mouth, sweating increased. Metabolic and Nutritional: hyperglycemia, thirst. Hemopoietic: leukopenia, purpura, thrombocytopenia. NORVASC therapy has not been associated with clinically significant changes in routine laboratory tests. No clinically relevant cha …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Do not exceed doses greater than 20 mg daily of simvastatin. ( 7.2 ) 7.1 Impact of Other Drugs on Amlodipine CYP3A Inhibitors Co-administration with CYP3A inhibitors (moderate and strong) results in increased systemic exposure to amlodipine and may require dose reduction. Monitor for symptoms of hypotension and edema when amlodipine is co-administered with CYP3A inhibitors to determine the need for dose adjustment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . CYP3A Inducers No information is available on the quantitative effects of CYP3A inducers on amlodipine. Blood pressure should be closely monitored when amlodipine is co-administered with CYP3A inducers. Sildenafil Monitor for hypotension when sildenafil is co-administered with amlodipine [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . 7.2 Impact of Amlodipine on Other Drugs Simvastatin Co-administration of simvastatin with amlodipine increases the systemic exposure of simvastatin. Limit the dose of simvastatin in patients on amlodipine to 20 mg daily [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Immunosuppressants Amlodipine may increase the systemic exposure of cyclosporine or tacrolimus when co-administered. Frequent monitoring of trough blood levels of cyclosporine and tacrolimus is recommended and adjust the dose when appropriate [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] .

Drug interactions Sildenafil When amlodipine and sildenafil were used in combination, each agent independently exerted its own blood pressure lowering effect [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] .

Drug interactions In vitro data indicate that amlodipine has no effect on the human plasma protein binding of digoxin, phenytoin, warfarin, and indomethacin. Impact of other drugs on amlodipine Co-administered cimetidine, magnesium-and aluminum hydroxide antacids, sildenafil, and grapefruit juice have no impact on the exposure to amlodipine. CYP3A inhibitors : Co-administration of a 180 mg daily dose of diltiazem with 5 mg amlodipine in elderly hypertensive patients resulted in a 60% increase in amlodipine systemic exposure. Erythromycin co-administration in healthy volunteers did not significantly change amlodipine systemic exposure. However, strong inhibitors of CYP3A (e.g., itraconazole, clarithromycin) may increase the plasma concentrations of amlodipine to a greater extent [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . Impact of amlodipine on other drugs Amlodipine is a weak inhibitor of CYP3A and may increase exposure to CYP3A substrates. Co-administered amlodipine does not affect the exposure to atorvastatin, digoxin, ethanol and the warfarin prothrombin response time. Simvastatin : Co-administration of multiple doses of 10 mg of amlodipine with 80 mg simvastatin resulted in a 77% increase in exposure to simvastatin compared to simvastatin alone [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ] . Cyclosporine : A prospective study in renal transplant patients (N=11) showed on an average of 40% increase in trough cyclosporine levels when concomitantly treated with amlodipine [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ] . Tacrolimus : A prospective study in healthy Chinese volunteers (N=9) with CYP3A5 expressers showed a 2.5- to 4-fold increase in tacrolimus exposure when concomitantly administered with amlodipine compared to tacrolimus alone. This finding was not observed in CYP3A5 non-expressers (N= 6). However, a 3-fold increase in plasma exposure to tacrolimus in a renal transplant patient (CYP3A5 non-expresser) upon initiation of amlodipine for the treatment of post-transplant hypertension resulting in reduction of tacrolimus dose has been reported. Irrespective of the CYP3A5 genotype status, the possibility of an interaction cannot be excluded with these drugs [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ] .

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Pediatric: Effect on patients less than 6 years old is not known. ( 8.4 ) • Geriatric: Start dosing at the low end of the dose range. ( 8.5 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary The limited available data based on post-marketing reports with NORVASC use in pregnant women are not sufficient to inform a drug-associated risk for major birth defects and miscarriage. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with poorly controlled hypertension in pregnancy [see Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. ] . In animal reproduction studies, there was no evidence of adverse developmental effects when pregnant rats and rabbits were treated orally with amlodipine maleate during organogenesis at doses approximately 10 and 20-times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD), respectively. However for rats, litter size was significantly decreased (by about 50%) and the number of intrauterine deaths was significantly increased (about 5-fold). Amlodipine has been shown to prolong both the gestation period and the duration of labor in rats at this dose [see Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. ]. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2%–4% and 15%–20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Hypertension in pregnancy increases the maternal risk for pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature delivery, and delivery complications (e.g., need for cesarean section and post-partum hemorrhage). Hypertension increases the fetal risk for intrauterine growth restriction and intrauterine death. Pregnant women with hypertension should be carefully monitored and managed accordingly. Data Animal Data No evidence of teratogenicity or other embryo/fetal toxicity was found when pregnant rats and rabbits were treated orally with amlodipine maleate at doses up to 10 mg amlodipine/kg/day (approximately 10 and 20 times the MRHD based on body surface area, respectively) during their respective periods of major organogenesis. However for rats, litter size was significantly decreased (by about 50%) and the number of intrauterine deaths was significantly increased (about 5-fold) in rats receiving amlodipine maleate at a dose equivalent to 10 mg amlodipine/kg/day for 14 days before mating and throughout mating and gestation. Amlodipine maleate has been shown to prolong both the gestation period and the duration of labor in rats at this dose. 8.2 Lactation Risk Summary Limited available data from a published clinical lactation study reports that amlodipine is present in human milk at an estimated median relative infant dose of 4.2%. No adverse effects of amlodipine on the breastfed infant have been observed. There is no available information on the effects of amlodipine on milk production. 8.4 Pediatric Use NORVASC (2.5 to 5 mg daily) is effective in lowering blood pressure in patients 6 to 17 years [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . Effect of NORVASC on blood pressure in patients less than 6 years of age is not known. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of NORVASC did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Elderly patients have decreased clearance of amlodipine with a resulting increase of AUC of approximately 40–60%, and a lower initial …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (calcium ion antagonist or slow‐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. The contractile processes of cardiac muscle and vascular smooth muscle are dependent upon the movement of extracellular calcium ions into these cells through specific ion channels. Amlodipine inhibits calcium ion influx across cell membranes selectively, with a greater effect on vascular smooth muscle cells than on cardiac muscle cells. Negative inotropic effects can be detected in vitro but such effects have not been seen in intact animals at therapeutic doses. Serum calcium concentration is not affected by amlodipine. Within the physiologic pH range, amlodipine is an ionized compound (pKa=8.6), and its kinetic interaction with the calcium channel receptor is characterized by a gradual rate of association and dissociation with the receptor binding site, resulting in a gradual onset of effect. Amlodipine is a peripheral arterial vasodilator that acts directly on vascular smooth muscle to cause a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance and reduction in blood pressure. The precise mechanisms by which amlodipine relieves angina have not been fully delineated, but are thought to include the following: Exertional Angina: In patients with exertional angina, NORVASC reduces the total peripheral resistance (afterload) against which the heart works and reduces the rate pressure product, and thus myocardial oxygen demand, at any given level of exercise. Vasospastic Angina: NORVASC has been demonstrated to block constriction and restore blood flow in coronary arteries and arterioles in response to calcium, potassium epinephrine, serotonin, and thromboxane A2 analog in experimental animal models and in human coronary vessels in vitro . This inhibition of coronary spasm is responsible for the effectiveness of NORVASC in vasospastic (Prinzmetal’s or variant) angina.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION NORVASC is the besylate salt of amlodipine, a long‐acting calcium channel blocker. Amlodipine besylate is chemically described as 3-Ethyl-5-methyl (±)-2-[(2-aminoethoxy)methyl]-4‐(2‐chlorophenyl)‐1,4‐dihydro‐6‐methyl‐3,5‐pyridinedicarboxylate, monobenzenesulphonate. Its empirical formula is C 20 H 25 CIN 2 O 5 •C 6 H 6 O 3 S, and its structural formula is: Amlodipine besylate is a white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 567.1. It is slightly soluble in water and sparingly soluble in ethanol. NORVASC (amlodipine besylate) Tablets are formulated as white tablets equivalent to 2.5, 5, and 10 mg of amlodipine for oral administration. In addition to the active ingredient, amlodipine besylate, each tablet contains the following inactive ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, dibasic calcium phosphate anhydrous, sodium starch glycolate, and magnesium stearate. Amlodipine Besylate Structural Formula

10 OVERDOSAGE Overdosage might be expected to cause excessive peripheral vasodilation with marked hypotension and possibly a reflex tachycardia. In humans, experience with intentional overdosage of NORVASC is limited. Single oral doses of amlodipine maleate equivalent to 40 mg amlodipine/kg and 100 mg amlodipine/kg in mice and rats, respectively, caused deaths. Single oral amlodipine maleate doses equivalent to 4 or more mg amlodipine/kg or higher in dogs (11 or more times the maximum recommended human dose on a mg/m 2 basis) caused a marked peripheral vasodilation and hypotension. If massive overdose should occur, initiate active cardiac and respiratory monitoring. Frequent blood pressure measurements are essential. Should hypotension occur, provide cardiovascular support including elevation of the extremities and the judicious administration of fluids. If hypotension remains unresponsive to these conservative measures, consider administration of vasopressors (such as phenylephrine) with attention to circulating volume and urine output. As NORVASC is highly protein bound, hemodialysis is not likely to be of benefit.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 2.5 mg Tablets NORVASC – 2.5 mg Tablets (amlodipine besylate equivalent to 2.5 mg of amlodipine per tablet) are supplied as white, diamond, flat‐faced, beveled edged engraved with “NORVASC” on one side and “2.5” on the other side and supplied as follows: NDC 58151-353-77 Bottle of 90 5 mg Tablets NORVASC – 5 mg Tablets (amlodipine besylate equivalent to 5 mg of amlodipine per tablet) are white, elongated octagon, flat‐faced, beveled edged engraved with both “NORVASC” and “5” on one side and plain on the other side and supplied as follows: NDC 58151-354-77 Bottle of 90 NDC 58151-354-88 Unit Dose package of 100 NDC 58151-354-30 Bottle of 300 10 mg Tablets NORVASC – 10 mg Tablets (amlodipine besylate equivalent to 10 mg of amlodipine per tablet) are white, round, flat‐faced, beveled edged engraved with both “NORVASC” and “10” on one side and plain on the other side and supplied as follows: NDC 58151-355-77 Bottle of 90 NDC 58151-355-88 Unit Dose package of 100 Storage Store bottles at controlled room temperature, 59° to 86°F (15° to 30°C) and dispense in tight, light‐resistant containers (USP). Distributed by: Viatris Specialty LLC Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A. © 2023 Viatris Inc. NORVASC is a registered trademark of Viatris Specialty LLC, a Viatris Company. UPJ:NRVSCT:R1p Revised: 2/2023

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
168,883
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: AMLODIPINE BESYLATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0069-1520-68 0069-1520 PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (0069-1520-68) July 31, 1992
0069-1530-68 0069-1530 PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (0069-1530-68) July 31, 1992
0069-1530-72 0069-1530 PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC 300 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (0069-1530-72) July 31, 1992
0069-1540-68 0069-1540 PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (0069-1540-68) July 31, 1992
58151-353-77 58151-353 Viatris Specialty LLC 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (58151-353-77) November 12, 2024
58151-354-30 58151-354 Viatris Specialty LLC 300 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (58151-354-30) January 23, 2025
58151-354-77 58151-354 Viatris Specialty LLC 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (58151-354-77) December 31, 2024
58151-354-88 58151-354 Viatris Specialty LLC 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 BOX, UNIT-DOSE (58151-354-88) / 1 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK September 24, 2024
58151-355-77 58151-355 Viatris Specialty LLC 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (58151-355-77) May 24, 2024
58151-355-88 58151-355 Viatris Specialty LLC 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 BOX, UNIT-DOSE (58151-355-88) / 1 TABLET in 1 BLISTER PACK February 9, 2024
0069-1520 0069-1520 PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC — July 31, 1992
0069-1530 0069-1530 PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC — July 31, 1992
0069-1540 0069-1540 PFIZER LABORATORIES DIV PFIZER INC — July 31, 1992
58151-353 58151-353 Viatris Specialty LLC — November 12, 2024
58151-354 58151-354 Viatris Specialty LLC — September 24, 2024
58151-355 58151-355 Viatris Specialty LLC — February 9, 2024

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.