home > drugs a-z list > calan (verapamil hcl) drug center > calan (verapamil hcl) drug - consumer uses and warnings

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

VERAPAMIL - ORAL

(ver-AP-a-mil)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Calan, Isoptin

USES: Verapamil is used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Verapamil is called a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.

Verapamil is also used to prevent chest pain (angina). It may help to increase your ability to exercise and decrease how often you may get angina attacks. Verapamil is also used to control your heart rate if you have a fast/irregular heartbeat (such as atrial fibrillation). It helps to lower the heart rate, helping you to feel more comfortable and increase your ability to exercise.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This drug may also be used to treat another type of heart disease (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually 3 or 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

For the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take a week before you get the full benefit of this drug. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

To prevent chest pain, it is very important to take this medication regularly as prescribed. This drug should not be used to treat chest pain when it occurs. Use other medications to relieve sudden attacks as directed by your doctor (for example, nitroglycerin tablets placed under the tongue). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.

Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (for example, your routine blood pressure readings remain high or increase or your chest pain occurs more often).