ISOPTIN

This medicine contains the active ingredient Verapamil which belongs to a group of medicines called 'calcium-channel blockers'. They lower the amount of calcium in the walls of the arteries and in the heart by interfering with the way calcium passes into certain muscle cells. Verapamil is used for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) by relaxing blood vessels, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia) and for the treatment of a certain type of chest pain called angina by opening up the arteries and improving the blood supply to the heart muscle.

Is Verapamil suitable for me?

Verapamil is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• If you are allergic to Verapamil, or any of the other ingredients of this medicine
• If you have recently had heart attack
• If you suffer from a slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• If you have low blood pressure (hypotension)
• If you have Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome  

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have any other problems with your heart
• are going to have an operation
• suffer from myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome, advanced Duchenne muscular dystrophy
• have liver or kidney problems
• have porphyria (a blood disorder)
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

Verapamil interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Verapamil?

This medicine is available in form of a film-coated tablet.

You should take Verapamil exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist. The usual dose will depend on your age, condition and needs.

• For the high blood pressure, the usual starting dose is 120 mg twice a day. The usual maintenance dose is 160 mg twice a day. The maximum dose is 480 mg a day.
• For the treatment of angina, the usual dose is 80 to 120 mg three times a day.
• For the treatment of arrhythmia, the usual dose is 40-120 mg three times a day.

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose. Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information.

What are Verapamil side effects?

Like all medicines Verapamil can cause side effects, including:

• flushing of the face or neck,
• sweating,
• headaches,
• tiredness,
• seizures,
• dizziness,
• vertigo,
• nervousness,
• movement disorders,
• abnormal discomfort,
• nausea, abdominal pain or vomiting,
• involuntary shaking or spasm
• ringing in the ears
• fast, slow or irregular heartbeat,
• low blood pressure,
• swelling of the ankles, hands or feet,
• constipation,
• swelling of the gums
• hair loss, skin rash or itching,
• blisters, ulcers, numbness,
• pains in the joints and/or muscles,
• impotence, enlarged breasts in men,
• tiredness,
• liver problems 

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.