Verapamil
Generic Name: Verapamil
Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:
You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.
Uses & Medical Indications
Treatment of angina, hypertension, supraventricular arrhythmias
Hypertension, Angina, Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
80-120 mg three times daily (IR) or 180-240 mg once daily (ER)
Varies by indication and age/weight (IV for SVT)
Start at lower dose (e.g., 120 mg/day ER)
480 mg/day
Use caution; elimination is prolonged
Severe impairment: reduce dose to 20-50% of normal
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Constipation, headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea
Heart block, severe bradycardia, heart failure, hypotension
Severe left ventricular dysfunction, hypotension, sick sinus syndrome, 2nd or 3rd degree AV block
Can worsen heart failure. Avoid in patients with certain cardiac conduction abnormalities.
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
Beta-blockers, digoxin, statins (simvastatin/lovastatin), carbamazepine
Grapefruit juice may increase levels
May increase alcohol blood levels and prolong effects
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Use only if clearly needed
Excreted in milk, generally considered compatible but monitor
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Increase fluid and fiber intake to prevent constipation. Rise slowly to avoid dizziness.
Take as soon as remembered. Skip if close to next dose.
Blood pressure, heart rate, ECG
Content for Verapamil was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.