Common Uses of Verapamil HCl

Verapamil HCl slows the transmembrane transportation of calcium ions to cells in the coronary arteries and other arteries throughout the body. The active ingredient, verapamil hydrochloride, relaxes smooth muscles in arteries.

This medication is prescribed to treat:

• Stenocardia (angina)
• Supraventricular tachycardia
• Sinus tachycardia
• Atrial tachyarrhythmia
• Atrial flutter
• Atrial arrhythmia
• Hypertension
• Hypertensive crisis
• Primary pulmonary hypertension

Dosage and Directions

• For stenocardia or supraventricular tachycardia: Take three times daily
• For arterial hypertension: Take twice daily

The exact dosage depends on your condition, age, and severity of symptoms. Always consult your doctor before taking this medication.

Important Precautions

• May impair thinking and reaction time
• Use caution when driving or operating machinery
• Rise slowly from sitting/lying positions to avoid dizziness
• Avoid alcohol consumption
• Consult your doctor about grapefruit juice interactions

Contraindications

Do not take Verapamil HCl if you have:

• Hypersensitivity to the medication
• Severe arterial hypotension
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Atrioventricular block (first and second degree)
• Sinoatrial blockade
• Sick sinus syndrome
• Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome (WPW)
• Lown-Ganong-Levine syndrome with atrial fibrillation/flutter

Only take this medication if prescribed by your physician.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Low blood pressure
• Headaches

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Chest pain, heart attack, or stroke symptoms
• Severe water retention with breathing difficulty
• Signs of very low blood pressure (dizziness, fainting)
• Hallucinations or psychotic symptoms
• Breast enlargement in men
• Allergic reactions (rash, hives, swelling, breathing difficulty)

Drug Interactions

• Dangerous heart slowing when combined with beta blockers
• Increases blood levels of digoxin, theophylline, carbamazepine, and muscle relaxants
• May reduce lithium levels in some patients

Regular monitoring of drug levels may be required to prevent toxicity.

Missed Dose Instructions

If you miss a dose:

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If near the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose
• Never take extra medicine to compensate

Overdose Information

If overdose is suspected (symptoms like slow heartbeat or fainting), seek immediate medical attention.

Storage Guidelines

Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in a light-resistant container.

Important Disclaimer

This information provides general guidelines only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions regarding your treatment. We are not responsible for any consequences of self-treatment or misinterpretation of this information.