Verelan: A Comprehensive Guide to Uses, Dosage, Demographic, Side Effects, Interactions, and Generic Options Verelan is a prescription drug meant for the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, and other cardiovascular disorders. It is a calcium channel blocker that helps relax the blood vessels, thereby reducing hypertension and allowing the heart to function optimally. This article provides an overview of Verelan, including its uses, dosage, demographic, side effects, interactions, and generic options. Uses Verelan is mainly prescribed for the treatment of hypertension, a condition characterized by abnormally high blood pressure. Verelan works by relaxing the blood vessels, thereby decreasing the workload on the heart and improving blood flow through the body. Verelan is also used for the management of stable angina pectoris, a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart muscles do not receive sufficient blood supply. Verelan works by improving blood flow and reducing the amount of work the heart has to do to pump blood. Dosage Verelan is available in the form of capsules that are taken orally, either with or without food. The typical starting dose for hypertension is 180mg per day, divided into two doses of 90mg. Patients with angina pectoris typically receive a starting dose of 120mg per day, divided into two doses of 60mg. The maximum recommended dosage is 480mg per day, but this should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Demographic Verelan is used in adults of all ages, including older adults. However, it should be used with caution in patients with impaired liver and kidney function, as the drug is metabolized and excreted by these organs. Verelan is also contraindicated in pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as patients with certain heart conditions, such as severe hypotension, heart block, and sick sinus syndrome. Side Effects Verelan may cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, fatigue, and nausea. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, some patients may experience more severe side effects, such as: - Hypotension (low blood pressure) - Bradycardia (slow heart rate) - Heart block - Edema (swelling of the ankles and feet) - Constipation - Dyspepsia (indigestion) - Myalgia (muscle pain) - Skin rash - Insomnia If any of these side effects occur, patients should seek medical attention immediately. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider if they experience any other unusual symptoms. Interactions Verelan may interact with other drugs, including beta-blockers, potassium-sparing diuretics, and antiarrhythmic drugs. These interactions may result in an increased risk of adverse effects, such as hypotension and bradycardia. Patients should inform their doctor if they are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Generic Options Verelan is available as a generic medication under the name Verapamil. Generic versions of Verelan have demonstrated equivalent efficacy and safety to the brand-name drug. Patients should speak to their doctor or pharmacist before switching to a generic medication, as some patients may be allergic to certain inert ingredients in the generic product. Conclusion Verelan is a calcium channel blocker used in the treatment of hypertension and stable angina pectoris. It works by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart. Verelan is suitable for use in adults of all ages, although patients with impaired liver and kidney function should use it with caution. Verelan may cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, and nausea, and may interact with other medications. Finally, there are generic versions of Verelan available that provide equivalent efficacy and safety to the brand-name drug.