Common Use

Isoptin is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes veins and arteries, making it easier for the heart to pump and reducing its workload. By blocking calcium entry into myocytes, it relaxes arterial muscles, improves oxygen delivery to the heart, and reduces peripheral resistance, blood pressure, and afterload. It also slows heart rate by decreasing electrical impulse conduction. Isoptin is used to treat hypertension, angina, and certain irregular heartbeats.

Dosage and Direction

Take Isoptin orally with or without food. The daily dose ranges from 180 to 480 mg, which can be taken as a single dose or divided into two or three intakes. Always follow your doctor's prescription and do not exceed the recommended dose.

Precautions

• Avoid alcohol, grapefruit juice, or grapefruit during treatment.
• Alcohol can worsen side effects like drowsiness and dizziness.
• Grapefruit interacts with Isoptin components.
• Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid dizziness.

Contraindications

Isoptin is contraindicated in patients with:

• Hypersensitivity to its components.
• Severe left ventricular dysfunction.
• Hypotension (systolic pressure below 90 mmHg).
• Cardiogenic shock.
• Sick sinus syndrome (unless a pacemaker is present).
• Atrioventricular block degree II-III (unless a pacemaker is present).
• Atrial flutter or fibrillation with an accessory bypass tract (e.g., Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome).

Side Effects

Isoptin is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include:

• Dizziness.
• Weakness or fainting.
• Swelling of the lower extremities.
• Rash.
• Headache.
• Constipation.

Rare but severe side effects like jaundice, difficulty breathing, or severe rashes require immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Isoptin interacts with several medications, including:

• Increases alcohol elimination time.
• Enhances doxorubicin efficacy.
• May reduce absorption when used with cytotoxic drugs like COPP or VAC.
• Co-administration with aspirin may increase bleeding risk.
• Can elevate digoxin levels, risking digitalis toxicity.
• Additive effects with other antihypertensive agents.

Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially Disopyramide, Flecainide, Quinidine, Phenobarbital, Cyclosporin, and lithium-based drugs. Isoptin may also affect liver test results.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and resume your regular schedule.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include slow heartbeat and fainting. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose.

Storage

Store Isoptin at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) away from light, moisture, pets, and children.

Disclaimer

This information provides general guidance and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or altering treatment. We disclaim responsibility for any errors or consequences of self-treatment based on this information.