Most Common Effects

• The most common side effects in clinical trials with Norvasc were swelling or water retention (edema), in up to 10 percent of participants, and headaches, in about 7 percent.
  
  

Other Common Effects

• Other side effects experienced by 1 to 5 percent of participants included abdominal pain, fatigue, flushing, heart palpitations and nausea. Muscle cramps and weakness also can occur.
  
  

Dizziness

• Mild dizziness is somewhat common the first few days when taking Norvasc, along with lightheadedness. Extreme dizziness and lightheadedness, along with fainting, are signs of low blood pressure.
  
  

Rare Side Effects

• Several rare side effects include back pain, diarrhea, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, insomnia, loss of appetite, ringing in the ears and vomiting.
  
  

Serious Side Effects

• Rare but serious side effects possible with Norvasc include anxiety, depression, chest pain, high blood glucose, irregular heartbeat, rapid weight gain and severe water retention.