It works by blocking the entry of calcium into the walls of blood vessels. Muscles need calcium to contract, and blocking calcium forces the smooth muscles of the blood vessels to relax, lowering blood pressure.
Because it relaxes the blood vessel muscles and reduces blood pressure, the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood.
You should only give Norvasc or any other medication with amlodipine to your dog if you have a veterinarian’s prescription. Follow your vet’s instructions closely for proper use of Norvasc for your dog.
The following is a guideline and should not replace your vet’s advice about dosage for your individual dog.
You should follow your vet’s instructions on how to administer the proper dosage. Your vet may adjust the dosage depending on your dog’s response to the drug or for the severity of their condition.
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If you suspect or know you pet has had an overdose, please contact your veterinarian, an emergency vet clinic or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 213-6680 immediately.
Do not use in animals that are allergic to Amlodipine Besylate or in breeding, pregnant or lactating females and breeding males. Use with caution in animals with heart failure or liver disease and do not miss any doses, as a missed dose could result in a sudden rise in blood pressure, which can cause adverse reactions.
It is important doses are not missed, as a missed dose can result in a sudden rise in blood pressure which could lead to blindness, kidney damage, seizures or collapse. If a dose of Amlodipine Besylate is missed, give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not give two doses at one time.
When using Amlodipine Besylate, please consult your veterinarian about any other medications you are currently giving your pet, including supplements, as interaction could occur. When using with aspirin, diuretics (e.g., Furosemide/Salix), certain beta-blocker heart medications (e.g., Propanolol or Atenolol) or other medications that lower blood pressure, please be sure to consult with your veterinarian as interactions may occur.
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