Why is this medication prescribed?

Verelan is a brand name for the extended-release form of verapamil, which is a calcium channel blocker. Verapamil is commonly prescribed for the treatment of various cardiovascular conditions. Here are some reasons why Verelan might be prescribed:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Verelan helps relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and lowering blood pressure.
• Angina Pectoris (Angina): Verelan can be used to manage chronic stable angina, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Verapamil is sometimes used to manage certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, specifically those originating above the heart’s ventricles.

How should this medicine be used?

Verelan (verapamil) is typically available in extended-release capsules, and its use should be guided by a healthcare professional. Below are general guidelines for using Verelan, but it’s crucial to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor:

• Dosage: The dosage of Verelan will depend on the individual’s medical condition and response to treatment. It’s important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Verelan is usually taken orally, with or without food. The capsules should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. It’s important not to crush, chew, or break the capsules, as this can interfere with the extended-release mechanism.
• Timing: Verelan is often taken once daily. However, your healthcare provider may adjust the frequency and timing of doses based on your specific condition.
• Consistency: Take Verelan consistently at the same time each day. This helps maintain a steady level of the medication in your body, providing effective and continuous control of your condition.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Follow-up: Regularly attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Verelan. Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your blood pressure and overall health.
• Do Not Abruptly Stop: Do not stop taking Verelan abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to adverse effects. Your doctor may need to gradually reduce the dosage if discontinuation is necessary.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects and contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.

It’s crucial to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your health, any side effects you may be experiencing, and any concerns you have about the medication. This will help ensure that Verelan is used effectively and safely for your specific medical condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Verelan, or verapamil, is primarily used to treat conditions related to the cardiovascular system, particularly hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain types of abnormal heart rhythms. However, it may sometimes be used off-label for other purposes at the discretion of a healthcare professional. Off-label use refers to the use of a medication for a purpose not approved by regulatory authorities but supported by scientific evidence.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have and medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Here are some general precautions for the use of Verelan:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Verelan during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered based on potential risks and benefits.
• Heart Conditions: Verelan may not be suitable for individuals with certain heart conditions. Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of heart failure, atrioventricular block, or other heart-related issues.
• Liver or Kidney Problems: Individuals with liver or kidney problems may require dose adjustments or special monitoring.
• Low Blood Pressure: Verelan can lower blood pressure. Caution is needed in individuals with hypotension (low blood pressure).
• Drug Interactions: Verelan may interact with other medications, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, and medications for heart conditions. Provide a complete list of all medications you are taking to your healthcare provider.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor of any allergies or hypersensitivities, as Verelan contains specific inactive ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction.

Always take Verelan as prescribed, and do not adjust the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring your response to the medication and addressing any potential side effects or concerns. If you experience severe side effects, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, seek immediate medical attention.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Verelan can be taken with or without food, but it’s essential to maintain a consistent diet. Changes in diet, particularly in the intake of high-fiber foods, can affect the absorption of the medication.
• Do not significantly alter your intake of grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as mentioned earlier.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you miss a dose of Verelan, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Verelan (verapamil), like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience them to a greater or lesser extent. It’s important to be aware of potential side effects and to promptly report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider. Common side effects of Verelan include:

• Constipation: Verapamil can slow down the movement of the digestive tract, leading to constipation. Maintaining a healthy diet with adequate fiber and fluid intake may help alleviate this side effect.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Changes in blood pressure, particularly when standing up from a sitting or lying position, can cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches as a side effect of Verelan.
• Swelling of Ankles and Feet: Edema or swelling in the lower extremities can occur. If you notice sudden or severe swelling, notify your healthcare provider.
• Flushing: Some individuals may experience facial flushing or a warm sensation.
• Nausea or Upset Stomach: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or upset stomach can occur.
• Fatigue: Verelan may cause fatigue or tiredness in some individuals.
• Low Heart Rate: Verapamil can decrease heart rate. Your healthcare provider will monitor your heart rate regularly during treatment.
• Abnormal Liver Function Tests: In some cases, verapamil may lead to changes in liver function tests. Regular monitoring may be recommended.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing may occur. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience these symptoms.
• Worsening Heart Failure: Verelan should be used cautiously in individuals with heart failure, as it may worsen this condition in some cases.

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to medications can vary. If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Additionally, your doctor will monitor your response to Verelan and may adjust the dosage or recommend alternative treatments if necessary. Always take the medication as prescribed and attend regular follow-up appointments to ensure the safe and effective management of your condition.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Verelan:

• Storage: Store Verelan (verapamil) at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it in its original packaging to protect it from environmental factors.
• Avoid Extreme Conditions: Avoid storing Verelan in excessively high or low temperatures, as extreme conditions can affect the stability and effectiveness of the medication.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Verelan in a location that is out of reach of children and pets.
• Do Not Use Expired Medication: Check the expiration date on the medication packaging, and do not use Verelan if it has expired. Expired medications may not be as effective and could potentially be harmful.
• Dispose of Unused Medication Properly: If you have leftover Verelan or the medication has expired, follow local guidelines for the proper disposal of medications. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: In the case of an overdose or if you suspect someone has taken too much Verelan, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Call your local poison control center or emergency room.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness, fainting, slowed heart rate, and difficulty breathing.
• Do Not Wait: Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking medical help in the case of a potential overdose.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring of your blood pressure and overall health.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care about your use of Verelan. This includes dentists, surgeons, and emergency medical personnel.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, that you are taking. Verelan may interact with other medications.
• Grapefruit Interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Verelan, as it can interact with the medication and lead to increased levels in the blood.
• Medical Alert Bracelet: If you have certain heart conditions, your healthcare provider may recommend wearing a medical alert bracelet indicating that you are taking Verelan.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of potential allergic reactions and seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the safe use of Verelan. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.