Description
Generic Name: amlodipine besylate and atorvastatin calcium
Drug Class: calcium channel blocker and lipid-lowering agent
Caduet Uses
Caduet is an oral prescription drug used to manage hypertension and coronary artery disease, including chronic stable angina and vasospastic angina. It is also used to prevent cardiovascular diseases and treat high cholesterol and triglycerides.
Caduet Dosage Forms
This is available in Caduet 5/20 mg, 5/40 mg, 5/10 mg, 5/80 mg, 10/10 mg, 10/20 mg, 10/40 mg, and 10/80 mg tablets.
Caduet Mechanism of Action
This combination drug inhibits calcium ion reflux on cell membranes selectively but with a greater effect on the vascular smooth muscle cells than on the heart’s muscle cells. It also inhibits the synthesis of HMG-CoA reductase and cholesterol in the liver while enhancing the uptake and catabolism of LDL-C or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
How to Take Caduet
Before you start taking this drug, it is necessary to read the drug information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. It is important to fully understand how and why medications work before taking them. If you need additional medical advice or information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Caduet should be taken once a day and is only meant to be taken by mouth with or without a meal. Swallow the tablet entirely and drink water right after. Cutting or chewing this product is not recommended. Do not lie down for 10 minutes after administering this oral drug.
Make a dosing schedule. If you are prescribed other cholesterol drugs, such as colestipol or cholestyramine, take them 1 hour prior or 4 hours after taking this medication. Do not increase or decrease your Caduet doses. You should also not take this oral drug more frequently than advised.
Caduet Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
-Dizziness
-Lightheadedness
-Headache
-Nausea
-Tiredness
-Diarrhea
-Indigestion
Severe Side Effects:
-Confusion
-Memory problems
-High blood sugar levels
-Fainting
-Palpitations
-Muscle weakness
-Changes in urine output
-Chest pain
-Shortness of breath
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Caduet.
In case of severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and contact your doctor.
Warnings and Precautions when using Caduet
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to amlodipine, atorvastatin, nifedipine, or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Symptoms of severe allergic reactions include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, and hives/itchiness. It is important to discontinue this medication if this occurs and seek emergency medical attention right away.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of alcohol abuse, aortic or mitral stenosis, liver disease, and kidney disease. Further, because of certain drug interactions, you should discuss all the prescription medications, non-prescription medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Drowsiness is a common adverse reaction to this medication. Practice safety caution when doing tasks that would need alertness, especially driving. You must also limit drinking alcohol while taking this tablet as it can increase the risk of liver problems.
Caduet and grapefruit may interact and cause adverse reactions. This is because grapefruit contains compounds that can negatively affect statins. Do not eat grapefruit and drink grapefruit juice while you are on this therapy.
It is best for pregnant and breastfeeding moms to avoid this oral medication because it can cause harm to unborn children and can also pass into the breastmilk. Discuss all the possible risks with your doctor.
How much does Caduet cost in Canada?
You may check the list of prices on this page. To get the best deals, purchase it from Pharmapassport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Caduet used for?
Caduet (amlodipine, atorvastatin) is prescribed for patients with high blood pressure. It is also used to prevent chest pain or angina. This is also known to prevent kidney problems, strokes, and heart attacks.
What is in Caduet?
Each capsule contains amlodipine and atorvastatin. It relaxes blood vessels in order to allow blood to flow more easily so that the heart does not need to work hard.
What is the best time to take Caduet?
There is no specific/recommended time to administer this oral drug. You may take it any time of the day, just as long as you administer it at the same time each day.
Does Caduet cause weight gain?
There is no direct association between this medication and weight gain. If you experience sudden or unexplained weight changes while on this medication, notify your physician immediately.
Can I stop taking Caduet?
You should not stop taking this prescription drug unless advised by your healthcare provider. Discontinuing this drug abruptly can cause your cholesterol levels or blood pressure to rise again.
Is Caduet a prescription drug?
This product is a prescription medication. You need to present a valid prescription when purchasing this product from any pharmacy.