Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Verapamil is a medication employed for the treatment of high blood pressure and the management of angina (chest pain). The immediate-release tablets are also utilized either on their own or in combination with other medications to prevent and treat irregular heartbeats. Additionally, it enhances the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart and regulates the heart rate by slowing electrical activity in the heart. Verapamil belongs to a class of medications known as calcium-channel blockers. Its mechanism of action involves relaxing blood vessels, thereby reducing the workload on the heart.
Uses and Dosage
Verapamil is available in different forms, including tablets, extended-release tablets, and extended-release capsules, all to be taken orally. The regular tablet is typically taken three to four times a day, while the extended-release tablets and capsules are usually taken once or twice a day.
Take verapamil at approximately the same time(s) every day, and the specific timing may vary depending on the formulation.
Some verapamil products should be taken in the morning, while others should be taken at bedtime. Consult your doctor for the best time for you to take the medication.
Take verapamil precisely as directed—do not exceed or reduce the dosage or take it more frequently than prescribed by your doctor.
For extended-release tablets and capsules, swallow them whole without chewing or crushing. If you are unable to swallow the extended-release capsules, you may open them and sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should not be hot and should be soft enough to be swallowed without chewing. Consume the applesauce immediately without chewing, and follow it with a glass of cool water. Do not store the mixture for future use.
Your doctor will likely initiate treatment with a low dose of verapamil and then gradually increase your dose as needed.
Note that while verapamil effectively controls arrhythmias, high blood pressure, and angina, it does not cure these conditions. Even if you feel well, continue taking verapamil as prescribed by your doctor. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- constipation
- heartburn
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- headache
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- slow heartbeat
- fainting
- blurred vision
- rash
- nausea
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- lack of energy
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
Caution
- Before taking verapamil, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, especially if you have certain types of heart rhythm problems, heart failure, certain muscle/nerve disorders (muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis), liver disease, or kidney disease.
- This drug may cause dizziness. The use of alcohol or marijuana can intensify this effect. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially constipation or swelling of the ankles/feet.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when deemed essential. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to make an informed decision based on your specific situation.
Form and Strength
Isoptin SR is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Isoptin SR extended-release tablet:
- 120 mg
- 240 mg
- verapamil extended-release tablet:
- 120 mg
- 180 mg
- 240 mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Isoptin to work?
It depends on what you’re using Isoptin for. For example, the maximum effects of Isoptin for an irregular heartbeat can be seen within 2 days. But for high blood pressure, you probably won’t experience the full effect of the medication until 2 to 4 weeks later.
Is Isoptin a beta blocker?
No, Isoptin isn’t a beta blocker; it’s a calcium channel blocker. Both medication classes work on the heart and blood vessels to treat high blood pressure or chest pain, but they work in different ways.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/verapamil/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/verapamil-oral-route/description/drg-20071728
- https://www.rxlist.com/isoptin-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-53561/isoptin-s-r-oral/details
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/isoptin-sr
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/isoptin-sr.html
