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Verapamil - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

Last Updated on May 11, 2020
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Information about Verapamil

Generic Name : Verapamil
Pronunciation : ver-AP-a-mil
Latest prescription information about Verapamil. Learn how to pronounce the drug's name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its storage instructions . Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
ICD Code : Y52.1 | Therapeutic Classification : Calcium Channel Blockers
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Trade Names/Brand Names of Verapamil

India : 

International : 

Calan, Calan SR, Covera-HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan, Verelan PM, Isoptin, Isoptin IV
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Why is Verapamil Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a calcium channel blocker, prescribed for high blood pressure, chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm, and headache.  It works by relaxing the blood vessels.

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When should Verapamil not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with low blood pressure, heart disease, and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Verapamil?

Adult- PO- The recommended dose range is 120-480 mg/day in 3-4 divided doses.

How should Verapamil be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Verapamil?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of low blood pressure, heart, kidney or liver problems, muscular dystrophy, neuromuscular disease, cancer, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Monitor liver function, kidney function, complete blood cell counts, electrocardiogram (ECG), and blood pressure regularly while taking this medication.

• It should not be used in children.

What are the side effects of Verapamil?

   Most Common : Constipation, headache, upper respiratory infection, dizziness, fatigue, swelling in the extremities, nausea, elevated liver enzymes, slow heart rate, tingling, flushing and low blood pressure.
   Heart : Chest pain, heart failure, lung swelling, heart attack, palpitations, bruising and fainting.
   Gastrointestinal : Diarrhea, dry mouth, gastrointestinal distress and gum swelling.
   Blood : Bruising.
   Central Nervous system : Stroke, confusion, sleeplessness, muscle cramps, shakiness and drowsiness.
   Musculoskeletal : Joint pain.
   Skin : Rash, exanthema, hair loss, increased sweating, hives and redness of the skin.
   Eye : Blurred vision and ringing in the ear.
   Genitourinary : Increased urination, spotty menstruation, impotence and breast enlargement in male.
   Miscellaneous : Allergy aggravation and difficulty in breathing.

What are the other precautions for Verapamil?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Verapamil?

Store it at room temperature.


Schedule : H
Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.
Last Updated : 2/8/2023
Learn more about Verapamil's interaction with Food, Herbs and Alcohol



Verapamil : Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Verapamil a safe drug?

A: Verapamil is generally considered to be a safe drug. However, it is advised to use it according to the dose and duration advised by your doctor. It may cause some temporary side effects that usually resolve on their own (1 Trusted Source
The efficacy and safety of valsartan compared with placebo in the treatment of patients with essential hypertension

Go to source
).

Q: Who should not take Verapamil?

A: Verapamil is contraindicated in patients with an irregular or slow heartbeat, heart failure, or low blood pressure. It should not be given to pregnant women or those planning to get pregnant (2 Trusted Source
Verapamil

Go to source
).

Q: Does Verapamil affect memory?

A:  Verapamil, as a small conductance calcium-activated potassium channel antagonist, may have a dual effect: it may improve memory but fails to have a neuroprotective role in Alzheimer’s disease (3 Trusted Source
Verapamil and Alzheimer’s Disease: Past, Present, and Future

Go to source
).

Q: When is the best time to take Verapamil?

A: Verapamil is usually available in the form of tablets, extended-release tablets, and extended-release capsules. The tablets are taken 3-4 times a day, while extended-release tablets and capsules are taken once or twice a day, either in the morning or in the evening (4 Trusted Source
Verapamil

Go to source
).

Q: What happens when alcohol is taken with Verapamil?

A: Avoid alcohol or use it in moderation while taking this medication as it may cause an excessive lowering of blood pressure (5 Trusted Source
Verapamil : Interaction with Food, Herbs and Alcohol

Go to source
).

  • 1. The efficacy and safety of valsartan compared with placebo in the treatment of patients with essential hypertension - (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8930424/ )
  • 2. Verapamil - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538495/ )
  • 3. Verapamil and Alzheimer’s Disease: Past, Present, and Future - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7214748/ )
  • 4. Verapamil - (https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684030.html )
  • 5. Verapamil : Interaction with Food, Herbs and Alcohol - (https://www.medindia.net/drugs/drug-food-interactions/verapamil.htm )
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kimsu, India

kindly inform me about available injectable verapamil ...

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