Veracal 40
Form: Tablet
Strength: 40mg
Generic Name: Verapamil Hydrochloride
Company: Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
MRP:৳ 2.25 (Strip=10)
Per Piece: ৳ 0.23
Is Antibiotic: No
Indications
It is used to treat essential high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), and to prevent heart attacks. It also helps with heart rhythm problems, such as supraventricular arrhythmias. It is used in injection form to treat fast heartbeats (tachycardias), irregular heart rhythms, acute high blood pressure, and other heart-related conditions.
Pharmacology
It works by blocking calcium channels in the heart and blood vessels, which helps to relax the blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the heart’s workload. This medication also helps regulate heart rhythm. It comes in two forms: immediate-release, which requires taking multiple times a day, and extended-release, which only needs to be taken once a day. It should not be used by patients with severe heart issues like left ventricular dysfunction or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, as it can worsen these conditions.
Dosage & Administration
Verapamil Tablet: The dose should be adjusted for each patient. For high blood pressure, the initial dose is usually 180 mg once a day, which can be increased as needed. For chest pain, the usual dose is 80-120 mg three times a day. For heart rhythm issues, the dose is typically 240-360 mg, depending on the condition’s severity.
Verapamil Injection: In adults, the injection is usually 5 mg given slowly, and can be repeated if necessary. The injection may also be given as an infusion in specific cases. For children, the dose varies by age, ranging from 0.75 mg for newborns to 5 mg for children aged 6-14 years. It should be administered under medical supervision and adjusted as necessary based on the patient’s condition.
Interaction
It may interact with several medications, including those that affect the liver enzymes (e.g., erythromycin, ritonavir). It can increase the effect of some drugs like aspirin, cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin), and some blood pressure medications. It can also enhance the effects of alcohol and lithium.
Contraindications
It should not be used by patients with severe heart conditions like left ventricular dysfunction, low blood pressure, or certain heart rhythm problems. It is also not recommended for those with known allergies to this drug.
Side Effects
Most people tolerate it well, but common side effects include constipation, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. It may also cause low blood pressure, swelling, slow heart rate, and liver enzyme changes in some individuals. Rare side effects can include rashes and shortness of breath.
Pregnancy & Lactation
It should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary. It can pass through the placenta and be found in the blood of the baby. It also passes into breast milk, so breastfeeding should be avoided while taking this medication.
Precautions & Warnings
Patients with heart issues like slow heart rate, low blood pressure, or heart failure should use it carefully. It can also affect the ability to drive or operate machinery, especially in the first stages of treatment or when combined with alcohol.
Overdose Effects
In case of overdose, the treatment should focus on supporting the patient. Medications that stimulate the heart or calcium solutions may be used to counteract the overdose. Hemodialysis is not effective in removing it from the body.
Therapeutic Class
It belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers, which help to relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Storage Conditions
Keep it in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Similar Brands of Verapamil Hydrochloride (Tablet – 40mg)
| Brand Name | Form | Strength | Company | MRP (৳) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angimil | Tablet | 40mg | Medimet Pharmaceuticals Ltd. | 2.25 |