Caduet

Generic name: Amlodipine besylate and atorvastatin calcium

What is Caduet?

Caduet, along with diet and exercise, is used to treat both high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Since Caduet combines two medicines (Norvasc and Lipitor), it works in two ways. First, Caduet works by relaxing your blood vessels. This lets your blood flow more easily and helps lower your blood pressure. Second, Caduet lowers "bad" cholesterol by blocking an enzyme in the liver that your body uses to make cholesterol. Less cholesterol is produced, and this results in lower levels in your blood.

What is the most important information I should know about Caduet?

Caduet may increase the frequency of heart attack in people with obstructive coronary artery disease. Treatment with this drug should be discontinued if there are signs of muscular problems, such as rhabdomyolysis (the breakdown of muscle). Therefore, any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever, should be immediately reported to your doctor.

Who should not take Caduet?

Do not take Caduet if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Also, you should not begin therapy with Caduet if you have liver problems.

Do not take Caduet if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant. If you get pregnant, stop taking Caduet and call your doctor right away.

Do not take Caduet if you are breastfeeding. Caduet can pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Caduet?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Caduet. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have or had liver disease. Tell your doctor of any muscle aches or weakness, diabetes, thyroid problems, kidney problems, or if you drink more than 2 glasses of alcohol daily.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The dosage of Caduet is based on both effectiveness and tolerance for each individual component in the treatment of high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Because Caduet is made up of both Norvasc and Lipitor, please see those individual entries for exact dosing.

How should I take Caduet?

Take Caduet once a day at any time of day, at about the same time each day. Do not split or crush the tablets before taking them.

What should I avoid while taking Caduet?

Avoid becoming pregnant while taking Caduet.

Do not breastfeed. Caduet can pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Caduet?

If Caduet is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Because Caduet is made up of both Norvasc and Lipitor, please see those individual entries for individual drug interactions. Tell your doctor if you take medications for your immune system, infections, cholesterol, birth control, heart failure, or HIV (AIDS).

You can use nitroglycerine and Caduet together. If you take nitroglycerine for chest pain (angina), do not stop taking it while taking Caduet.

What are the possible side effects of Caduet?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: back pain, constipation, dizziness, fatigue, headache, irregular heartbeat, liver problems, muscle problems, nausea, rash, sleepiness, stomach pain, swelling of your legs or ankles, weakness

Can I receive Caduet if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Caduet if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are nursing. This drug may cause severe problems in your pregnancy and may be passed into your breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Caduet?

If you miss a dose of Caduet, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

How should I store Caduet?

Store Caduet at room temperature.