Verapamil
Generic Name: Verapamil
Uses & Medical Indications
Treatment of angina, hypertension, supraventricular arrhythmias
Hypertension, Angina, Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Verapamil relaxes tight blood vessels and supports regular cardiac pumping, keeping blood pressure within a healthy range and protecting heart health.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Verapamil lowers elevated blood pressure and relieves myocardial workload by inducing systemic vasodilation, antagonizing adrenergic sympathetic tone, or inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis.
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
Identified Clinical Drug Interactions for Verapamil:
Elevated Serum Digoxin & Cumulative Heart Block
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
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Verapamil was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- 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.