Verapamil (ver-AP-a-mil)

Treats high blood pressure. This medicine is a calcium channel blocker.

Brand Name(s):

Verelan PM, Calan SR, Verelan, Covera-HS, Calan, Isoptin SR

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, Long Acting Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out what works best for you. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• It is best to take this medicine with food or milk.
• Swallow extended-release tablets or extended-release capsules whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
• If you are taking the Verelan® extended-release capsule, you may open it and pour the medicine into a small amount of applesauce. Stir this mixture well and swallow it without chewing.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• There are many medicines that you should not use with verapamil. This includes medicines you can get without a prescription. Make sure your doctor knows about all medicines you are using.
• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or a condition called myasthenia gravis.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or lightheaded. You should avoid driving or using machines. You should not do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to slowly decrease your dose before stopping it completely.
• Your doctor will need to check your blood at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Breathing problems or trouble taking a breath.
• Chest pain.
• Dizziness or low blood pressure.
• Fast, slow, uneven, or pounding heartbeat.
• Severe rash.
• Swelling in your legs, feet, or ankles.
• Unusual tiredness or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, nausea, or upset stomach.
• Dry mouth.
• Headache.