Verapamil (Calan*) 30 Tablets

$22.00 – $85.00

Anti-Anginal: Verapamil helps relieve angina symptoms by dilating coronary arteries, increasing oxygen supply to the heart muscle, and reducing the workload on the heart.
Antiarrhythmic: Verapamil can also help control certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, such as supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), by slowing down the heart rate and restoring normal heart rhythm.

Description

Verapamil, sold under the brand name Calan®, is a calcium channel blocker medication used to treat various cardiovascular conditions. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure. Verapamil is prescribed to manage conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders.

Key Features:

Calcium Channel Blocker: Verapamil belongs to the class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, which inhibit the influx of calcium ions into smooth muscle cells and cardiac muscle cells, leading to relaxation of blood vessels and reduced heart rate.
Anti-Hypertensive: Verapamil is effective in lowering blood pressure, making it a valuable medication for individuals with hypertension or high blood pressure.
Anti-Anginal: Verapamil helps relieve angina symptoms by dilating coronary arteries, increasing oxygen supply to the heart muscle, and reducing the workload on the heart.
Antiarrhythmic: Verapamil can also help control certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, such as supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), by slowing down the heart rate and restoring normal heart rhythm.

Usage Instructions:

Dosage: The dosage of verapamil varies depending on the individual’s condition, age, and response to treatment. It is typically started at a low dose and gradually increased as needed under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Administration: Verapamil tablets are taken orally with a full glass of water, usually one to three times daily, as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It may be taken with or without food, but consistency in administration is important.
Extended-release Formulation: Extended-release formulations of verapamil are available, providing a sustained release of the medication over time, which may allow for less frequent dosing and smoother blood level fluctuations.
Duration of Treatment: Verapamil is often used as a long-term treatment to manage chronic cardiovascular conditions. It is important to continue taking the medication even if symptoms improve unless instructed otherwise by a healthcare provider.

Precautions:

Heart Conditions: Verapamil should be used with caution in individuals with certain heart conditions, such as heart failure, severe aortic stenosis, or significant left ventricular dysfunction, as it may worsen these conditions.
Hypotension: Verapamil can cause low blood pressure, particularly in individuals with pre-existing hypotension. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly during treatment.
Drug Interactions: Verapamil can interact with a variety of medications, including beta-blockers, digoxin, statins, and certain antiarrhythmic drugs. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Grapefruit Interaction: Verapamil interacts with grapefruit and grapefruit juice, which can increase the concentration of the medication in the blood and may lead to adverse effects. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking verapamil.

Side Effects:

Common Side Effects: Common side effects of verapamil may include dizziness, headache, constipation, nausea, flushing, or edema (swelling).
Less Common Side Effects: Less common but potentially serious side effects may include bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block, hypotension, or allergic reactions. If any of these occur, seek medical attention promptly.

Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on the use of verapamil and to discuss any questions or concerns regarding its usage, precautions, or potential side effects.