Calan, also known as verapamil, is a medication that is commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure, chest pain, and certain arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). It belongs to a family of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing the blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart. Uses Calan is used to treat a variety of conditions, including: - High blood pressure: Calan can help lower blood pressure and prevent complications associated with high blood pressure, such as heart attack and stroke. - Chest pain (angina): Calan can help relieve chest pain caused by a lack of blood flow to the heart. - Arrhythmias: Calan can help control irregular heartbeats, such as atrial fibrillation and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Dosage The dosage of Calan will vary depending on the condition being treated and the patient's individual needs. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and not to exceed the recommended dose. For high blood pressure, the typical starting dose is 80mg taken three times daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. For angina, the typical starting dose is 80mg to 120mg taken three times daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. For arrhythmias, the typical starting dose is 80mg taken three times daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. It is important to take Calan regularly and at the same time each day to get the most benefit. Demographic Calan is generally considered safe for most adults. However, it may not be suitable for certain populations, including: - Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Calan can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant. It may also harm an unborn baby. - Elderly patients: Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Calan and may require a lower dose to avoid side effects. - Patients with liver or kidney disease: Calan is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys, so patients with liver or kidney disease may need a lower dose to avoid side effects. Side Effects Like all medications, Calan can cause side effects. Some common side effects include: - Headache - Dizziness - Fatigue - Nausea or vomiting - Constipation - Rash More serious side effects may include: - Chest pain or tightness - Irregular heartbeat - Shortness of breath - Swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles - Fainting If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Interactions Calan can interact with other medications and supplements, so it is important to let your doctor know about all medications you are taking. Some common medications that may interact with Calan include: - Beta blockers: Calan can cause dangerously low blood pressure when taken with beta blockers, which are also used to treat high blood pressure and heart conditions. - Digoxin: Calan can increase the levels of digoxin in the blood, which can cause toxicity. - Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of Calan in the blood, which can increase the risk of side effects. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or change your medication regimen to avoid these interactions. Generic Options There are several generic versions of Calan available, including verapamil hydrochloride and verapamil ER. These generic versions are usually less expensive than the brand-name version, but they may have different dosages and formulations. It is important to talk to your doctor about the best option for you.