Information about Calan (Verapamil)
Calan is a prescription medication that contains verapamil, a type of calcium channel blocker. It is primarily used to treat various cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain), and certain types of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). By blocking calcium from entering the heart and blood vessel cells, verapamil helps to relax the blood vessels, reduce heart rate, and decrease the workload on the heart.
Product Highlights
- Verapamil belongs to this class of drugs, which helps in managing heart-related conditions.
- Effective for treating hypertension, angina, and specific arrhythmias.
- Available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations, allowing for flexible dosing schedules.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Helps to lower high blood pressure, which can reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems.
- Reduces the frequency and severity of chest pain caused by angina.
- Effective in controlling certain abnormal heart rhythms, helping to maintain a normal heart rate and rhythm.
- Promotes dilation of blood vessels, which can improve blood flow and reduce strain on the heart.
Direction of Use
- Follow the specific dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is important to take the medication exactly as directed.
- Typically taken orally with or without food. Extended-release tablets should not be crushed or chewed; swallow them whole.
- For best results, take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your bloodstream.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, constipation, nausea, and fatigue.
- Potential for more severe issues like significant drops in blood pressure, severe heart rhythm disturbances, liver problems, or allergic reactions. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, swelling of the extremities, or yellowing of the skin/eyes.
- Can interact with various other medications, including those for heart conditions, certain antibiotics, and antifungals. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Avoid Calan (Verapamil) If
- You are allergic to verapamil or any other ingredients in Calan.
- If you have certain heart conditions like severe bradycardia (slow heart rate), certain types of heart block, or severe heart failure, you should avoid using this medication.
- If you have significantly low blood pressure (hypotension), verapamil could exacerbate this condition.
- Patients with severe liver or kidney issues may need to avoid this medication or use it under strict medical supervision due to altered drug metabolism and excretion.
- Drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
