Indications
Isoptin is a prescription medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), and certain heart rhythm disorders. It contains the active ingredient verapamil hydrochloride. It is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the muscles of the heart and blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
Verapamil is also used to prevent further strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems in patients with high blood pressure. It helps to lower the heart rate, helping you to feel more comfortable and increase your ability to exercise.
Use and Dosage
Verapamil is available in tablet form to be taken by mouth with or without food, usually 3 to 4 times daily. Take Verapamil regularly to obtain the maximum benefit. Take it at the same time each day to help with remembering.
The recommended dosages of Verapamil can vary depending on the condition being treated. Typical dosages for Verapamil include:
- For high blood pressure: 40 mg orally three times a day, and maintenance dose varies from 80-120 mg orally three times a day.
- For chest pain caused by angina: The usual dose is 360 mg a day, split into 2 or 3 doses throughout the day. It can be taken with or without food.
For the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take a week to achieve the full benefits of this medication. Even if you feel better, continue taking this medication. Take the tablet regularly as prescribed to prevent chest pain and do not use it when an attack occurs. Use other medications as directed by your doctor (such as nitroglycerin tablets placed under the tongue) to treat sudden attacks.
Do not stop taking Verapamil tablet without consulting with a doctor, as some conditions may worsen when the drug is stopped suddenly. A gradual decrease in dose may be required. Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse (e.g., high, or increased blood pressure readings or chest pain occurring more often).
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Isoptin (Verapamil):
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Low blood pressure
- Nausea
Serious Side Effects of Isoptin (Verapamil):
- Anxiety
- Chest pain
- Cough with foamy mucus
- Fast or slow heart rate
- Fever
- Gasping for breath
- Lightheadedness
- Not feeling well
- Pale skin
- Rapid weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Sweating
- Swelling
- Upper stomach pain
- Wheezing
Forms and Strength
Isoptin (Verapamil) is available in the following forms and strength:
Verapamil: Tablet
- 80 mg
- 120 mg
Cautions
- Low blood pressure: Isoptin can lower blood pressure, and in some cases, this may cause symptoms such as dizziness or light-headedness. Patients should be cautious when rising from a seated or lying position to avoid falling.
- Heart problems: Patients with certain heart conditions, such as heart failure or a slow heart rate, may be at an increased risk of complications when taking Isoptin.
- Liver and kidney damage: Isoptin can cause damage to the liver or kidneys, especially in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney problems.
- Grapefruit interactions: The consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice can affect the way the body metabolizes Isoptin, leading to increased levels of the drug in the blood.
- Medication interactions: Isoptin may interact with other medications, including blood thinners and beta-blockers, which may increase the risk of side effects.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: inform a doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding before taking Isoptin, as it may not be safe for these populations.
- Mental health effects: Some patients may experience mental health effects such as depression or anxiety while taking Isoptin.
- Gastrointestinal effects: Isoptin may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation or nausea in some patients.
- Elderly patients: Elderly patients may be at an increased risk of side effects when taking Isoptin due to changes in the way the body processes medications.
- Surgery: Patients who are scheduled to undergo surgery while taking Isoptin should inform their doctor, as the medication may interact with anesthesia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Isoptin safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?
Inform a doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding before taking Isoptin, as it may not be safe for these populations.
Can Isoptin be taken with food?
Isoptin can be taken with food or on an empty stomach but take it consistently with regard to food intake.
Can I stop taking Isoptin suddenly?
No, do not stop taking Isoptin suddenly, as this may cause a sudden increase in blood pressure or chest pain. Patients should consult with their doctor and follow their instructions for tapering off the medication.
How long does it take for Isoptin to start working?
The onset of action of Isoptin varies depending on the condition being treated and other individual factors, but it may begin to work within a few hours of taking the medication.
Resources
- https://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/i/Isoptintab.pdf
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Isoptin.aspx
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=6ae13cb4-0316-40d1-9216-c7d5556aaed3
- https://www.rxlist.com/isoptin-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5499/isoptin-oral/details
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