Medications and Drugs

GENERIC NAME: VERAPAMIL EXTENDED RELEASE - ORAL (ver-APP-uh-mill)

BRAND NAME(S): Calan SR, Isoptin S.R.

Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This drug is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium is involved in blood vessel contraction and in controlling the electrical impulses within the heart. By blocking calcium, verapamil relaxes and widens blood vessels and can normalize heart rates. Verapamil is used to treat high blood pressure.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used for irregular heartbeats or chest pain (angina).

HOW TO USE: The tablet or caplet form (which is a capsule-shaped tablet) should be taken with food. This medication must be taken as directed to prevent chest pain. It is not effective if taken only when chest pain occurs. Do not stop taking this medication suddenly without your doctor's permission. Chest pain can occur if the medication is stopped too fast. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

SIDE EFFECTS: This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days. When you sit or lie down for a while and get up, get up slowly to allow your body to adjust and minimize dizziness. You may also experience nausea, blurred vision, weakness, lowered blood pressure, muscle cramps, headache, flushing or constipation. Inform your doctor if these effects persist or worsen. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop: breathing difficulties, rash, chest pain, swelling of the hands or feet, an irregular heartbeat, fever, malaise, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes and skin, dark urine. An empty tablet shell may appear in your stool. This is harmless. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.