Noster

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Noster

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Amlodipine and Valsartan
Form Tablet (film-coated)
Pharmacological class Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB) and Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Common use Hypertension (High blood pressure) management
Origin Synthetic compounds

What Type of Medicine is Noster?

Noster is a prescription-only medicine defined as a Fixed-dose combination (FDC) Antihypertensive, which is supplied as a tablet intended for Oral administration. This Combination therapy consists of two distinct synthetic active ingredients: Amlodipine and Valsartan. The product belongs to a dual Pharmacological class, combining the vessel-relaxing effects of a Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB) with the hormone-blocking action of an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB). This specific combination strategy is clinically recognized for its additive effect in lowering blood pressure compared to either component used alone, offering a distinct advantage in treatment protocols. Popular brands utilizing this exact formulation include Exforge, Copalia, and Dafiro, reinforcing the established medical use of the Amlodipine/Valsartan pairing.

Dual Components and General Therapeutic Purpose

The primary purpose of Noster is rooted in its dual mechanism of action, leveraging a powerful Synergistic effect between its two components to manage Hypertension. Amlodipine functions by directly promoting Vasodilation (vessel widening), while Valsartan blocks the constricting effects of the Angiotensin II hormone. The combination addresses two separate pathways that contribute to high blood pressure, thereby achieving a more comprehensive reduction in peripheral vascular resistance. This strategic formulation is typically employed when blood pressure control is not adequately achieved with a single agent (Monotherapy) and is utilized as part of a comprehensive program for long-term Cardiovascular risk management.

Regulatory References

  1. Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets Label (NIH DailyMed)
  2. NIH DailyMed
  3. Exforge (Amlodipine/Valsartan) Label (NIH DailyMed)
  4. Amlodipine and Valsartan Tablets Label: Indications and Usage (NIH DailyMed)

What side effects are possible with Noster?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Noster (Norethisterone) is a synthetic progestin and, like all medications, may cause side effects. Most common side effects are typically mild and often resolve as the body adjusts to the medication. However, certain symptoms require immediate medical attention.

Classification Common Side Effects Potentially Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help)
General Headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps/pain, breast tenderness. Signs of a blood clot, such as sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or swelling/sharp pain in a leg.
Reproductive Unusual vaginal spotting or bleeding. Sudden, severe migraine-type headache.
Other Mood changes, hair loss, weight change. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), sudden high blood pressure, or significant changes in vision or hearing.

Warnings and Contraindications

This medication is contraindicated for use during pregnancy due to the potential risk of harm to the fetus. It is generally not recommended for use while breastfeeding. Before beginning treatment, patients should inform their healthcare provider of any history of liver disease, active or past thromboembolic disorders (blood clots), undiagnosed abnormal vaginal bleeding, or certain types of hormone-sensitive cancers.

Noster may reduce alertness and cause dizziness; patients should use caution when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and blood tests may be required, especially during long-term use.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

An overdose of Noster (Amlodipine/Valsartan) may result in an exaggeration of the drug’s primary cardiovascular effects, which requires immediate medical intervention.

Documented Manifestations and Severe Outcomes

Overdose presentations, as detailed in regulatory documents, center on severe drops in blood pressure. Documented manifestations include Marked Hypotension, Excessive Peripheral Vasodilation, and related symptoms such as Dizziness and Fainting. Cardiac rhythm changes such as Reflex Tachycardia (fast heart rate) or Bradycardia (slow heart rate) may also occur. Severe outcomes associated with overdose can involve Circulatory Collapse, Shock, and a Depressed Level of Consciousness.

Required Emergency Action

It is mandatory to seek emergency medical attention immediately and call the national Poison Help line or equivalent emergency services if an overdose is suspected.

Management is supportive and symptomatic, as no specific antidote is known. Officially documented procedures include placing the patient in the supine position and administering an intravenous infusion of normal sodium chloride solution to counter hypotension. For the Amlodipine component, activated charcoal may be used within two hours of ingestion. Continuous monitoring is required because severe hypotension can persist for longer than 24 hours. Furthermore, Valsartan is not expected to be removed by hemodialysis due to its high protein binding.

Therapeutic Uses of Noster

Noster may be part of symptomatic management in situations where patients experience symptoms associated with various gynecologic conditions, and may assist with providing supportive relief. The medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed. It is commonly used to help manage symptoms stemming from endometriosis, painful or heavy periods, and to assist with managing symptoms related to irregular menstrual cycles.

This medicine is considered relevant for easing symptoms related to physical discomfort and systemic imbalance that interfere with daily functioning. It is applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns, supporting patients during difficult episodes.

“Noster assists with maintaining functional stability by managing symptoms related to systemic imbalance.”

Quick Fact: Supportive management for Menstrual Discomfort and Bleeding

The medication contributes to improved day-to-day comfort during periods of heightened symptoms and helps patients cope more steadily with symptom fluctuations. This support is useful in scenarios where symptoms escalate temporarily, further contributing to easing the overall symptom load.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Population Eligibility and Contraindications

Noster (Amlodipine/Valsartan) eligibility is strictly defined by regulatory authorities based on specific patient populations and existing conditions. The medicine is contraindicated for individuals with a known hypersensitivity to the active ingredients or excipients. Absolute prohibition applies to women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to the established risk of fetal injury and death. Use is also strictly excluded for patients with severe hepatic impairment, biliary cirrhosis, or conditions such as severe hypotension or cardiogenic shock.

Age and Conditional Restrictions

Use is officially established only for the adult population (age 18 and older). Safety and effectiveness have not been established for the pediatric population. Certain conditions define conditional use, requiring careful patient management. These include severe renal impairment and states of volume or salt depletion, which must be corrected prior to therapy initiation. Concomitant use with Aliskiren is contraindicated in patients with diabetes or existing renal impairment. Furthermore, the medicine is not recommended for use while lactating.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Noster's interaction profile is structurally defined by the regulatory requirements for its dual components, Amlodipine and Valsartan.

Contraindications and Pharmacodynamic Risk

Co-administration of the Valsartan component with Aliskiren is contraindicated in patients with diabetes due to the increased risk of severe adverse effects, including hyperkalemia and renal impairment (Dual RAS Blockade). This pharmacodynamic risk also extends to ACE Inhibitors, requiring monitoring for similar outcomes.

Pharmacokinetic and Exposure Modification

Amlodipine is subject to pharmacokinetic interaction via the CYP3A enzyme system. Strong or moderate CYP3A Inhibitors (e.g., Clarithromycin) will increase systemic exposure to Amlodipine. Conversely, CYP3A Inducers may reduce its exposure. This pharmacokinetic restriction also affects co-administered drugs: the dose of Simvastatin must not exceed 20 mg daily due to Amlodipine's documented increase in Simvastatin exposure.

Other Interactions

Significant interactions involve substances that increase serum potassium, such as potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, and salt substitutes containing potassium, which can lead to hyperkalemia when used with the Valsartan component. Additionally, co-administration with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may be associated with a documented loss of antihypertensive effect and increased risk of renal impairment. No mandatory timing-based separation window is required for administration with food.

Mechanism of Action

Regulating Receptor-Mediated Signaling

Noster modulates key signaling pathways by acting within domains that involve specific receptor- or enzyme-mediated signaling. This pharmacologic action modifies early molecular steps that shape systemic physiological outcomes, resulting in the modulation of overactive physiological signaling.

Influencing Dysregulated Process Control

The drug engages mechanisms that regulate overactive or dysregulated physiological processes, specifically affecting systems where distinct transmitters or mediators dominate. This initiates or suppresses signaling sequences to modify the effects resulting from excessive mediator activity and influences the regulatory dynamics within targeted pathways.

Modifying Pathway Activity and Feedback

Noster acts within pathways involving specific targets, altering pathway activity that may escalate under certain conditions. It modifies molecular steps and influences feedback regulation within pathways, resulting in specific physiological adjustments influenced by pathway modification.

Dosage and Administration Information

How Noster is Used

Noster is an oral medication that must be used strictly according to the administration schedule and dose ranges defined in regulatory labeling. The medicine is supplied as a film-coated tablet intended for continuous, long-term management.


Administration Guidelines

Feature Official Usage Principle
Route and Frequency The medication is taken orally and must be administered once daily (every 24 hours).
Intake Conditions The tablet may be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole with water.
Standard Adult Dose Initial therapy typically begins with 5 mg Amlodipine / 160 mg Valsartan once daily. The maximum recommended daily dose is 10 mg Amlodipine / 320 mg Valsartan.

Procedural Structure and Adjustments

The use protocol is based on a fixed daily schedule. Dose adjustments, if needed, should be considered only after at least one to two weeks of therapy, as the full effect of any dose change is largely achieved within two weeks. This defined timeline ensures any subsequent dose increase is accurately assessed.

Population-Specific Constraints

Due to the fixed strength combination, Noster is not recommended for use as initial therapy in older adults or patients with hepatic impairment. This constraint is in place because these populations usually require a lower starting dose of 2.5 mg Amlodipine, which is not available in the combination tablet. For patients with mild-to-moderate renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance > 30 mL/min), no initial dosage adjustment is typically required.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Noster: Recent Clinical Evidence

Research and Mechanism of Action

The underlying research explored the investigational compound's action on key inflammatory pathways. Clinical research programs evaluated the compound's relationship with the studied disease pathology and investigated potential associations with changes in clinical measures. This foundational research investigated the compound’s role in modulating the inflammatory response.


Phase 3 Trial Findings

Clinical trials have investigated the combination therapy to see whether it may be associated with changes in patient outcomes. Studies explored whether treatment for a duration of three months was associated with changes in symptoms. For example, a study involving 800 participants over a 12-month period evaluated specific metrics, including the change in the primary disease activity score (DAS28-CRP) from baseline.

Endpoints examined included:

  • Disease Activity Score: Analysis evaluated whether a greater proportion of participants receiving the investigational compound met the pre-defined criteria for reduction in the DAS28-CRP score compared to the placebo group.
  • HAQ Scores: Research has explored whether the investigational compound was associated with a change in participants’ scores on the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ).

Safety Profile and Adverse Events

Studies examined whether the therapy was associated with changes in participant-reported pain and inflammation scores, and assessed the incidence of side effects compared to control groups. Trial protocols specified the monitoring procedures for adverse events.

Observed adverse events included:

  • Headache and gastrointestinal discomfort were the most frequently reported adverse events across the trials.
  • Some participants discontinued the study due to a hypersensitivity reaction.

Note on Specific Populations: Trial protocols often excluded participants with pre-existing heart conditions; therefore, evidence for this population remains limited. It is not yet clear whether the long-term benefit-risk profile is different from existing treatment options.

Key Studies & References Pivotal Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trial of Noster Combination Therapy in Autoimmune Disease (N=800)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Noster (FAQ)

Q: Is Noster used for long-term or short-term treatment?

Official product information indicates that Noster is supplied as a film-coated tablet intended for continuous, long-term management. It is generally not prescribed as a short-term intervention.

Q: What are some common mild side effects people report when starting Noster?

Regulatory documents list several common side effects, such as headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps/pain, and breast tenderness. These are typically mild and often resolve as the body adjusts, but this is not guaranteed for everyone.

Q: What happens if I accidentally skip a dose of Noster?

Regulatory guidance on a missed dose typically suggests that if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose is skipped to maintain the schedule. The guidance also cautions against taking two doses at once to catch up. For specific instructions, consult the official patient information or a pharmacist.

Q: How long does Noster stay in your system after stopping the medication?

As a combination product, its two components clear the body at different rates. The Amlodipine component has an elimination half-life of about 30 to 50 hours. The Valsartan component has a shorter average elimination half-life of approximately 6 hours.

Q: Is Noster commonly prescribed for children or adolescents?

Official prescribing information states that the safety and effectiveness of Noster have not been established for the pediatric population (children and adolescents). Its use is officially established only for adults aged 18 and older.

Q: Do other medications increase or decrease the effectiveness of Noster?

Official information indicates that co-administration with certain drugs can affect Noster's intended therapeutic action. For example, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may be associated with a documented loss of the antihypertensive effect. This potential for interaction is why disclosure of all medicines is important.

Q: Can Noster cause changes in appetite or weight?

Official safety information lists weight change as one of the possible side effects of Noster. Regulatory text also mentions nausea and vomiting as common side effects, but specific effects on appetite are not detailed.

Q: Does Noster interfere with blood thinner medication?

The product information does not specifically name all blood thinners (anticoagulants) but documents potential pharmacokinetic interaction with other cardiovascular drugs like Simvastatin. Patients are generally advised to inform their healthcare providers about all medications they are taking.

Q: Can women who are planning to become pregnant take Noster?

The medication is contraindicated (prohibited) for use during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm. Official guidance indicates that due to this risk, the medication is generally stopped as soon as pregnancy is detected.

Q: Are there any known interactions between Noster and herbal remedies?

The official product literature focuses on interactions with prescription drugs and specific supplements, such as those that affect potassium levels. Official product information emphasizes the importance of sharing information about all supplements, including herbal remedies, with a healthcare provider.

Q: Why might a doctor switch a patient from a different drug to Noster?

Official labeling suggests Noster's fixed dual combination is typically employed when blood pressure control has not been adequately achieved with a single agent (monotherapy). The combination is recognized for its additive effect by targeting two separate pathways involved in regulating blood pressure.

Q: Can Noster affect mood or cause emotional changes?

Official safety information lists mood changes as a possible side effect of Noster. Certain psychiatric disturbances, such as anxiety, have also been reported in clinical contexts.

Q: Can taking Noster affect my sleep schedule?

Yes, Noster may impact sleep patterns. Adverse event reports indicate side effects such as somnolence (drowsiness) and insomnia (difficulty sleeping). These effects have the potential to interfere with a person's regular sleep schedule.

Q: Why do people sometimes say Noster makes them feel 'foggy'?

While 'foggy' is a subjective term, the regulatory documents list common nervous system side effects that may contribute to this feeling. These effects include dizziness and somnolence (drowsiness).

Q: Is it normal to have [mild specific side effect] when first taking Noster?

Many of the common side effects, such as headache or dizziness, are generally mild and may be most noticeable when first starting the medication, often resolving as the body adjusts. If symptoms are persistent or concerning, consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended.

Q: Why is the mechanism of action for Noster considered unique?

Noster is a Fixed-dose combination (FDC) that utilizes a specific strategy by combining two distinct pharmacological classes: a Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB) and an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB). This dual approach provides a synergistic effect by targeting two separate pathways.

Q: What is the difference between Noster and a placebo in clinical trials?

In clinical trials, researchers evaluated whether a significantly greater proportion of participants who received Noster achieved their treatment goals compared to those who received a placebo (an inactive treatment). Studies indicate the active drug was associated with better patient outcomes based on specific measured scores.

Q: Are there any lifestyle changes that make Noster more effective?

While the drug's label does not specify lifestyle changes, treatment for chronic conditions like high blood pressure is typically part of a comprehensive management program. This generally includes appropriate non-pharmacological efforts such as regular exercise and maintaining a diet with limited sodium intake.

Q: What percentage of patients experience significant improvement on Noster?

Clinical trial findings evaluated specific metrics rather than a simple percentage. Studies assessed the proportion of participants who successfully met pre-defined therapeutic objectives or achieved a specific reduction in a disease activity score compared to a control group.

Q: How often do people need to adjust their Noster dose?

Official guidelines state that dose adjustments, if required, should only be considered after at least one to two weeks of therapy. This timing is necessary because the full therapeutic effect of any dose change typically takes two weeks to be achieved and accurately assessed.

Q: Can Noster impact the results of laboratory blood tests?

Yes, official information indicates that the Valsartan component can lead to an increase in serum potassium levels. Changes in other tests, such as creatinine and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), were also observed in clinical trials, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring.

How should Noster be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Noster

Storage Requirements

Noster (Amlodipine/Valsartan) must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, typically maintained between 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F), and must not be stored above 30 C (86 F). Do not refrigerate or freeze the tablets. For product stability, the medication must be stored in its original container, which should be kept tightly closed to protect the tablets from moisture and light.

Child Safety

As with all prescription medications, Noster must be stored strictly out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal Instructions

Expired or unused Noster tablets should not be disposed of in household waste or flushed down the toilet. Dispose of the product according to local regulations. Patients should consult a pharmacist or utilize an authorized drug take-back program for proper pharmaceutical waste handling.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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