Norvasc (amlodipine) is a blood pressure-lowering drug from the calcium-channel blocker class. It relaxes and widens the blood vessels so blood flows more easily, and it is also used to prevent angina attacks [1]. It is not a diuretic. Its best-known side effect is swelling of the ankles and feet, and it may cause headache and facial flushing in the first few days. Do not stop it on your own, and discuss any bothersome side effect with your doctor.
What is Norvasc and why do doctors prescribe it?
Norvasc is the brand name of amlodipine. It is available as tablets of 5 mg and 10 mg, as shown in the Clinics Jo drug directory. Other products with the same active ingredient are sold under different brand names, such as Amlor.
Doctors prescribe it to lower high blood pressure, which reduces the risk of serious problems such as heart attacks and strokes [1]. It is also used to prevent angina attacks in people who have them [1]. It may be prescribed alone or in combination, and it is often taken in a single tablet with an ARB or ACEI drug.
Most adults and children over 6 years old can take it, but it is not suitable for everyone [1]. Doses for children are always based on weight and must be prescribed by a doctor or directed by a pharmacist.
The drug controls blood pressure but does not cure it, so it should be continued even if you feel well [2]. Untreated high blood pressure can damage the brain, heart, blood vessels and kidneys [2]. To learn about the condition itself, read the high blood pressure page and the article High Blood Pressure: The Silent Killer.
How does Norvasc work, and is it a diuretic?
Amlodipine belongs to the calcium-channel blocker class. It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, which makes it easier to pump blood through the body [1]. As a result, the heart does not have to work as hard to pump [2].
In angina, the drug increases the blood supply to the heart. When taken regularly, it controls chest pain, but it does not stop pain once it has started, and the doctor may prescribe another drug for these cases [2]. You can read a brief definition in the amlodipine entry in the glossary.
Why is it not a diuretic?
Diuretics work through the kidneys to remove salt and water. Norvasc, on the other hand, acts on the walls of the blood vessels themselves and does not remove water from the body. This difference is key to understanding the swelling it can cause.
Why does Norvasc cause ankle swelling?
Swelling of the ankles, feet and legs (peripheral edema) is a common side effect of amlodipine [1]. It is dose-dependent, meaning it usually increases with higher doses. The drug widens the small blood vessels, and fluid tends to leak into the tissues in the lowest parts of the body because of gravity, namely the ankles and feet. For this reason, swelling often becomes worse late in the day after standing or sitting for long periods.
This swelling is not "extra water" caused by the kidneys, so it is not treated with a diuretic that you take on your own. Read about ankle swelling and edema in general to understand the differences between their causes.
What should I do if swelling appears?
- Do not stop the drug and do not change the dose on your own, as stopping suddenly can be dangerous [1].
- Raise your legs while sitting and resting, as this usually reduces swelling.
- Record when the swelling appears, whether it worsens late in the day, and write down your blood pressure readings along with it.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist if the swelling is severe or does not go away [2].
- Do not take a diuretic or any other drug to treat the swelling without consulting a doctor.
For bothersome swelling, the doctor can decide on solutions such as lowering the dose, adding an ACEI or ARB drug, or switching to a suitable alternative. Do not neglect the medication because of swelling; discuss it with your doctor instead.
When might the swelling not be from the drug?
Swelling may have other causes. If it affects only one leg, or if it is painful, red and warm, or accompanied by shortness of breath or facial swelling, do not assume it is a normal side effect. Seek a prompt medical evaluation, and if shortness of breath worsens, go to the emergency room.
Headache, facial flushing and other side effects: what to expect
Not everyone experiences side effects. Some ease after about a week as the body gets used to the drug, while others last longer [1]. Headache and facial flushing often appear in the first few days and then usually go away. The table summarizes the most common ones.
| Side effect | What to know | Appropriate action |
|---|---|---|
| Swelling of the ankles and feet | Common, and dose-dependent [1] | Raise the legs, and inform the doctor so the plan can be adjusted |
| Headache, dizziness and drowsiness | Common [1] | If you feel dizzy or drowsy, do not drive or operate machinery until it passes [1] |
| Redness and warmth of the face or neck | Common at the beginning [1] | Usually goes away; consult the doctor if it bothers you or persists |
| Palpitations or a more noticeable pulse | Common [1] | See a doctor if it is fast, strong or irregular [2] |
| Nausea, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, and fatigue | Common [1] | Ask your doctor or pharmacist if they persist |
Gum overgrowth is a rare side effect, so maintain good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly. If any symptoms bother you, continue taking the drug until your doctor or pharmacist advises otherwise [1]. For more information about this class of medicines, see common side effects of high blood pressure medications.
Does Norvasc interact with grapefruit and other drugs?
Yes, so tell your doctor and pharmacist about everything you take. Do not eat grapefruit or drink its juice during treatment, as it increases the likelihood of side effects [1]. Grapefruit and some drugs inhibit an enzyme in the liver (CYP3A4) that breaks down amlodipine, causing its level in the blood to rise and increasing swelling and blood pressure drops. Limit alcohol, as it increases the risk of low blood pressure [1].
The following are examples of drugs and products that may not be compatible with amlodipine [1]:
- Simvastatin (a statin): should not exceed 20 mg daily when taken with it, according to the official recommendation, as stated on the drug page.
- Some antibiotics such as rifampicin, and some antifungal drugs such as fluconazole.
- Some HIV drugs, and immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus.
- Herbs such as St John's wort.
- Other blood pressure drugs: this is often intentional and is managed by the doctor.
Keep a written list of all your medications, supplements and herbs, and bring it to every medical visit [2]. Note that some combined blood pressure tablets contain amlodipine with another drug [2], so do not take them together with Norvasc without consulting a doctor.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Amlodipine is not generally recommended during pregnancy because safer similar drugs exist. However, it may be used if alternatives are not effective and treating the condition is important, and the doctor will discuss the risks and benefits [1]. It is not usually used during breastfeeding [1]. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, tell your doctor without stopping the medication on your own.
How do I take the drug? Dosing, missed doses and stopping
Amlodipine is usually taken once daily at the same time, either before or after meals [1]. The usual dose prescribed by the doctor or pharmacist is 5 to 10 mg once daily. Doctors often start with a low dose and increase it gradually [2].
- Missed dose: NHS advises skipping the missed dose and taking the next one at its usual time [1]. MedlinePlus says it can be taken when remembered unless it is less than 12 hours until the next dose [2]. Follow your medication leaflet or ask your pharmacist, and never double the dose.
- Stopping: Do not stop it unless your doctor directs you to, as sudden discontinuation can be dangerous [1]. Most people with high blood pressure or angina need long-term treatment [1].
- Overdose: It can be dangerous. Go immediately to the nearest emergency department or call 911, and bring the medication box and leaflet with you [1]. Do not drive yourself.
- Storage: Keep the tablets in their closed packaging, away from light, heat and moisture (and not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children [2].
In Jordan, medicines including amlodipine, along with their published prices, are regulated by the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA). Ask your pharmacist about licensed alternatives containing the same active ingredient, and do not switch medications without informing your doctor.
How do I measure my blood pressure at home and understand the readings?
Regular blood pressure checks are recommended to understand how you respond to the drug [2], and controlling blood pressure is a long-term investment in your health. Home measurement is useful because blood pressure often rises without symptoms. When measuring at home, keep a log of readings to show your doctor at every visit. You can find a detailed explanation of the correct method in the article Measuring Blood Pressure at Home, and you can also explore the blood pressure monitoring service.
Blood pressure is measured with two numbers: systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number). The following categories, based on the American MedlinePlus reference, show how readings are classified [3]:
| Category | Systolic | Diastolic |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | and below 80 |
| Slightly elevated | 120 – 129 | and below 80 |
| Stage 1 | 130 – 139 | or 80 – 89 |
| Stage 2 | 140 or higher | or 90 or higher |
| Hypertensive crisis (seek care immediately) | Above 180 | and above 120 |
These are general classification categories; your personal treatment target is set by your doctor based on your condition. High blood pressure is not diagnosed from a single reading but from two or more readings taken at different times [3]. For more on critical situations, read Hypertensive Crisis.
The drug alone is not enough. A low-fat, low-salt diet, a healthy weight, physical activity for 30 minutes most days, quitting smoking and moderating alcohol all help control blood pressure [2]. The DASH diet and increased dietary potassium are also beneficial [3]. Details are in the article Preventing High Blood Pressure Through Lifestyle and Diet.
When should I see a doctor, and when should I go to the emergency room?
See your doctor or pharmacist soon if:
- Side effects bother you or do not go away [1].
- Ankle swelling increases or does not improve with leg elevation.
- You feel repeated dizziness or drowsiness, or your home readings are consistently low or high.
- You are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding [1].
- Another doctor has prescribed a new drug or you have started a herbal supplement.
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department if you experience:
- Chest pain that is more frequent or severe, a fast, strong or irregular pulse, or fainting [2].
- Swelling of the throat or tongue with an itchy rash, or difficulty breathing, which are signs of severe allergy [1]. See the drug allergy page.
- Sudden, severe abdominal pain that does not go away, which may indicate pancreatitis [1].
- Painful blisters, ulcers and skin peeling with flu-like symptoms [1].
- Taking a dose higher than the one prescribed by the doctor [1].
A heart attack caused by amlodipine is extremely rare [1]. A blood pressure reading above 180 over 120 requires immediate medical attention [3].
How do I find the right doctor or clinic in Jordan?
Blood pressure medication is usually followed up by a cardiologist or an internist. On the hypertension treatment page at Clinics Jo, you can browse doctors and clinics by specialty and governorate. If high blood pressure has not yet been diagnosed, start with hypertension diagnosis.
The directory presents information about doctors and clinics and allows contact or booking where the page permits, but it does not evaluate medical quality or rank doctors. When reviewing any listing, check the following:
- The specialty suited to your condition (cardiology or internal medicine).
- The governorate and address, and how easily you can reach them for regular follow-up.
- The services offered, such as diagnosis, monitoring and treatment.
- Working hours and the available methods of contact or booking.
Questions to ask at the appointment
- Is the swelling I am experiencing related to the drug, and what are the options if it persists?
- What dose is right for me, and when should I have my blood pressure measured again?
- Are my other medications and herbs safe with amlodipine?
- What blood pressure target should I aim for, and when should I contact you?
Bring your medication list and your blood pressure log, as this helps the doctor make a more accurate decision.
This information is educational and does not replace consulting your doctor. If you take Norvasc and your legs swell or any symptom bothers you, speak with your doctor rather than stopping treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Is Norvasc a diuretic?
No. Norvasc (amlodipine) is a calcium-channel blocker. It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, not by removing water through the kidneys. For this reason, the ankle swelling it causes is not treated with a diuretic you take on your own; it is best to discuss it with your doctor so they can adjust the treatment plan.
Why do my feet swell after taking Norvasc?
Swelling of the ankles and feet is a common side effect of amlodipine and may increase with higher doses. The drug widens the small blood vessels, and fluid tends to collect in the lower legs. Raise your legs and tell your doctor, as they may lower the dose, add another drug or change the treatment.
Should I stop Norvasc if swelling appears?
Do not stop it on your own, as sudden discontinuation can be dangerous. Contact your doctor or pharmacist and tell them about the swelling. For bothersome swelling, the doctor can decide on solutions such as adjusting the dose, adding an ACEI or ARB drug, or choosing a suitable alternative.
Does Norvasc cause headache and facial flushing?
Yes, headache and redness and warmth of the face or neck are common side effects and usually appear in the first few days. Some effects ease after about a week as the body gets used to the drug. If they bother you or persist, tell your doctor or pharmacist, and continue treatment unless advised otherwise.
Can I drink grapefruit juice with Norvasc?
This is not recommended. Grapefruit and its juice raise the level of amlodipine in the blood and increase the likelihood of side effects such as swelling and low blood pressure. Avoid them during treatment, and tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications and herbs you take.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Norvasc?
Never double the dose. Some references advise skipping the missed dose and returning to the usual schedule, while others advise taking it when remembered unless it is less than 12 hours until the next dose. Follow your medication leaflet or ask your pharmacist for the most suitable option for you.
Sources and references
- Amlodipine: medicine to treat high blood pressure and angina — NHS (UK National Health Service). Accessed: 2026-10-26.
- Amlodipine: MedlinePlus Drug Information — MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine. Accessed: 2026-10-26.
- How to Prevent High Blood Pressure: MedlinePlus — MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine. Accessed: 2026-10-26.