Indications
Caduet is an oral medication indicated for managing hypertension in adults. It combines two active ingredients: amlodipine besylate and atorvastatin calcium. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that is used to treat high blood pressure or angina, while atorvastatin is an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor that is used to lower high cholesterol levels. The combinations of these two drugs work together by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily and the heart does not need to work so hard.
Caduet can be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive drugs. In addition to hypertension management, Caduet is also used in coronary artery diseases, including chronic stable angina, vasospastic angina, and angiographically documented CAD. By preventing heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems, Caduet can improve the patient's ability to exercise. Caduet is taken by mouth and is available in tablet form and is typically used in adults who require treatment for both high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Uses and Dosage
Caduet is an oral medication that comes in the form of a tablet, which should be taken by mouth as directed by a healthcare provider, usually once a day. It can be taken with or without food. To get the most benefit from this medication, take Caduet regularly, making sure to take it at the same time each day. It may take up to two weeks to get the full benefit of amlodipine and up to four weeks to get the full benefit of atorvastatin. Caduet is a prescription medication and should be taken only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
The typical starting dose is amlodipine 5 mg and atorvastatin 10 mg by mouth once daily. Your provider might adjust your dose every few weeks to find the best dose for you. The maximum dose is amlodipine 10 mg and atorvastatin 80 mg by mouth once daily.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Caduet (Amlodipine Besylate/Atorvastatin Calcium):
- Nausea
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Indigestion
- Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects of Caduet (Amlodipine Besylate/Atorvastatin Calcium):
- Memory problems
- Confusion
- Elevated blood sugar
- Fainting
- Palpitations
- Signs of liver problems (yellowish eyes or skin, dark urine, severe abdominal pain, persistent nausea, and vomiting)
- Muscle problems (pain, tenderness, or weakness) caused by rhabdomyolysis and autoimmune myopathy
- Signs of kidney disease (change in urine output)
Form and Strength
Caduet (Amlodipine Besylate/Atorvastatin Calcium) is available in the following forms and strength:
Caduet: Tablet
- 5/10 mg
- 5/20 mg
- 5/40 mg
- 5/80 mg
- 10/10 mg
- 10/20 mg
- 10/40 mg
- 10/80 mg
Amlodipine Besylate/Atorvastatin Calcium: Tablet
- 5/10 mg
- 5/20 mg
- 5/40 mg
- 5/80 mg
- 10/20 mg
- 10/40 mg
- 10/80 mg
Caution
- Grapefruit can increase the amount of medication in your bloodstream. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication, unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
- The medication should be taken only under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Caduet may interact with other medications, so it is important to keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal supplements) and share it with your healthcare provider.
- Individuals with liver problems should not take Caduet.
- Caduet may cause low blood glucose in individuals with diabetes, so it should be used with caution in these patients.
- Caduet should be used with caution in individuals with heart disease such as aortic stenosis.
- The medication may also cause side effects, be aware of the possible side effects and report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.
- Caduet should not be used during pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Caduet, notify your healthcare provider immediately.
- Women who are breastfeeding should not take Caduet, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
- The medication may cause dizziness, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Caduet affects you.
- Individuals with a history of liver disease or abnormal liver function tests should use Caduet with caution, as there have been reports of liver problems associated with the medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should I take Caduet?
Caduet should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily with or without food. The dosage may vary depending on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Can I take other medications with Caduet?
Caduet may interact with other medications, keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal supplements) and share it with your healthcare provider.
Who should not take Caduet?
Individuals with liver problems or abnormal liver function tests should not take Caduet. It is also not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
How long does it take for Caduet to work?
It may take up to two weeks to get the full benefit of amlodipine and up to four weeks to get the full benefit of atorvastatin.
Resources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/amlodipine-and-atorvastatin-oral-route/precautions/drg-20062902?p=1
- https://www.goodrx.com/caduet/what-is
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6f1a9bd8-ee30-4c7d-932f-3fa8c4e087b6
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2006/021540s006lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-88964/caduet-oral/details
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/caduet
- https://www.drugs.com/caduet.html
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