DRUG STUDY

Drawing
Generic Name
Brand Name
Classification
Action
Dosage
Indication
Contraindicatio
n
Side Effects
Adverse Effects
Drug
Interaction

Nursing
Intervention

Amlodipine
Norvatrol
Therapeutic: Antihypertensives
Pharmacologic: calcium channel blockers
Inhibits the transport of calcium into myocardial and vascular smooth muscle cells, resulting in inhibition of excitation-contraction
coupling and subsequent contraction. Therapeutic Effects: Systemic vasodilation resulting in decreased BP. Coronary vasodilation
resulting in decreased frequency and severity of attacks of angina.

5mg 1 tab PO OD
Alone or with other agents in the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and vasospastic (Prinzmetals) angina.
Hypersensitivity, Systolic BP <90 mm Hg.

Drowsiness, Dizziness, Edema, GI upset, Fatigue

CNS: dizziness, fatigue. CV: peripheral edema, angina, bradycardia, hypotension, palpitations. GI: gingival hyperplasia, nausea.
Derm: flushing.
Drug-Drug: concurrent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents may antihypertensive effects. Lithium may risk for
neurotoxicity. Drug-Food: Grapefruit juice serum levels and effect.
1. Monitor BP and pulse before therapy, during dose titration, and periodically during therapy
2. Monitor intake and output ratios and daily weight.
3. Assess for signs of HF (peripheral edema, rales/crackles, dyspnea, weight gain, jugular venous distention).
4. Amlodipine may be administered without regard to meals.
5. Advise patient to take medication as directed, even if feeling well. Take missed doses as soon as possible unless almost time for
next dose; do not double doses. May need to be discontinued gradually.
6. Advise patient to avoid large amounts (68 glasses of grapefruit juice/day) during therapy.
7. Instruct patient on correct technique for monitoring pulse.
8. Caution patient to change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic hypotension.
9. Encourage patient to comply with other interventions for hypertension (weight reduction, low-sodium diet, smoking cessation,
moderation of alcohol consumption, regular exercise, and stress management). Medication controls but does not cure
hypertension.
10. Instruct patient and family in proper technique for monitoring BP. Advise patient to take BP weekly and to report significant
changes to health care professional.