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Norvasc vs. Bystolic

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Amlodipine (Norvasc) and Nebivolol (Bystolic) are both used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different classes of medications and work in distinct ways. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure and is also used for coronary artery disease. It is available in both tablet and liquid forms, making it a good option for those who have trouble swallowing pills. Common side effects include swelling and tiredness. On the other hand, Nebivolol is a beta blocker that lowers blood pressure by slowing down the heart rate. It is not a first-choice medication for high blood pressure. Nebivolol can hide symptoms of low blood sugar and is not recommended for those who may be breastfeeding. Both medications are typically taken once daily and are available as lower-cost generics.

Amlodipine

(Norvasc)

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Nebivolol

(Bystolic)

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Summary for Norvasc

Prescription only

Amlodipine tablets, also known as the brand name Norvasc, help treat high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also help with coronary artery disease, including related angina or chest pain. This medication belongs to the drug class called calcium channel blockers. The tablets are taken by mouth once a day. Some side effects can include tiredness and swelling of the hands and feet.

Indications for Norvasc

Pros and Cons for Norvasc

Pros

  • A first-choice option for high blood pressure
  • Taken just once daily
  • Can take with or without food

Cons

  • Can cause swelling in the legs
  • Can cause dizziness, so it can raise the risk of falls
  • Might need dose adjustments for people with liver problems to keep them safe

Common Side Effects for Norvasc

  • Tiredness (5%)
  • Nausea (3%)

Warnings for Norvasc

  • Low blood pressure
  • Worsening chest pain and risk of heart attack

Summary for Bystolic

Prescription only

Nebivolol (Bystolic) is a beta blocker. It's used to treat high blood pressure in adults, but it's not a first-choice medication for this condition. The typical dose is to take one tablet by mouth daily. Some of the more common side effects of nebivolol (Bystolic) include dizziness and tiredness. Don't drink alcohol while taking this medication because doing so can worsen dizziness. Nebivolol (Bystolic) is less likely to cause erectile dysfunction and weight gain compared to other beta blockers. It's available as both brand name Bystolic and generic nebivolol.

Indications for Bystolic

Pros and Cons for Bystolic

Pros

  • Only need to take it once a day
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Less likely to cause certain side effects, like erectile dysfunction, compared to other beta blockers
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Not a first-choice medication to lower blood pressure
  • Can hide symptoms of low blood sugar if you have diabetes
  • Not recommended if you're breastfeeding
  • Can't suddenly stop the medication because it can raise your risk of chest pain or heart attack

Common Side Effects for Bystolic

  • Headache (6-9%)
  • Tiredness (2-5%)
  • Dizziness (2-4%)
  • Diarrhea (2-3%)
  • Nausea (1-3%)

Warnings for Bystolic

  • Heart attack or irregular heart rhythm
  • Risk of difficulty breathing
  • Hiding symptoms of low blood sugar
  • Hiding symptoms of high thyroid hormone
  • Risk during surgery
  • Severe allergic reactions

Prices with our coupons for Norvasc vs. Bystolic

Price Card Drug Icon
Amlodipine30 tablets / 10mg
$7.53$44.02
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Nebivolol30 tablets / 10mg
$15.12$110.10
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