Isoptin (Verapamil SR) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms and can lead to complications like heart attack, strokes, and kidney failure. Isoptin lowers high blood pressure to prevent complications. The drug is also used to treat angina (chest pain) and certain heart rhythm disorders. Isoptin is a delayed-release tablet released over a longer period in the body. The active ingredient in Isoptin is Verapamil SR. Verapamil belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels to improve circulation and reduce blood pressure.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Isoptin from India and Canada manufactured by Abbott Laboratories in the strength of 120 mg, 180 mg and 240 mg tablets. The generic Verapamil SR is available from Canada, New Zealand (Verpmil 120 SR), and Germany (Verahexal 180 Retard) by different manufacturers in the strength of 120 mg and 180 mg tablets.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Isoptin. The most common side effects of Isoptin may include the following:
• Constipation;
• Dizziness;
• Headache;
• Unusual tiredness
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Fast or slow heart rate;
• Light-headedness;
• Signs of liver problems, including appetite loss, upper stomach pain, tiredness, easy bruising, yellowing of the skin or eyes;
• Signs of lung problems, including anxiety, pale skin, wheezing, breathing difficulties
These are not all of the side effects of Isoptin. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Isoptin if you are allergic to Verapamil or any ingredient in Isoptin. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have a nerve-muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis or muscular dystrophy;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease;
• Have low blood pressure;
• Have severe heart failure
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Isoptin and aspirin, St. John’s wort, clarithromycin, digoxin, ketoconazole, atenolol, etc. Avoid terazosin, pravastatin, carbamazepine, or rifampin with Isoptin. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is not known if Isoptin will harm an unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Verapamil passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Take Isoptin precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet. Keep using this drug even if you feel well. Do not stop using this drug without talking to your doctor. Stopping Isoptin suddenly may make your condition worse. Isoptin is often used as part of a treatment program that includes diet, exercise, and other medications. This medicine may cause dizziness. Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires alertness. Isoptin may impair your thinking or reactions. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice when taking this drug. Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can further reduce your blood pressure and increase the side effects of Verapamil. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat, moisture, and light.