Caduet contains a combination of amlodipine and atorvastatin. Atorvastatin is a HMG CoA reductase inhibitor, or "statin." It reduces levels of "bad" cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in the blood, while increasing levels of "good" cholesterol (HDL). Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker. Amlodipine relaxes the blood vessels, improving blood flow and making it easier for the heart to pump. Caduet is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) or chest pain (angina), and to lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other heart complications in people with type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, or other risk factors. Caduet is used in adults and children who are at least 10 years old. Caduet may also be used for other purposes not listed here.
The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.
You should not use Caduet if you are allergic to amlodipine (Norvasc) or atorvastatin (Lipitor), if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, or if you have liver disease. Stop taking this medication and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
Before taking Caduet, tell your doctor if you have ever had liver or kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes, or a thyroid disorder, or if you drink more than 2 alcoholic beverages daily.
In rare cases, Caduet can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.
Avoid eating foods that are high in fat or cholesterol. Caduet will not be as effective in lowering your cholesterol if you do not follow a cholesterol-lowering diet plan.
Avoid drinking alcohol. It can raise triglyceride levels and may increase your risk of liver damage.
There are many other drugs that can increase your risk of serious medical problems if you take them together with Caduet. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to any healthcare provider who treats you.
Caduet is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Caduet: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop taking this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness;
fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine;
swelling, weight gain, urinating less than usual or not at all;
severe drowsiness, feeling like you might pass out;
fast or pounding heartbeats;
worsening chest pain;
chest pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, general ill feeling; or
nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Less serious Caduet side effects may include:
headache;
mild muscle pain;
diarrhea;
mild nausea;
stomach pain or indigestion;
dizziness;
joint pain;
flushing (warmth or redness in your face).
Take Caduet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Caduet is usually taken once a day, with or without food. Take the medicine at the same time each day. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.
Do not break a Caduet tablet. Tell your doctor if you have trouble swallowing the pill.
You may need to stop using Caduet for a short time if you have:
uncontrolled seizures;
an electrolyte imbalance (such as high or low potassium levels in your blood);
severely low blood pressure;
a severe infection or illness; or
surgery or a medical emergency.
To be sure Caduet is helping your condition and is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested often. Your liver function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.
Caduet is only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely.
You may need to take Caduet on a long-term basis for the treatment of high cholesterol. If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
