Trandolapril/verapamil

Trandolapril/verapamil is a medication combination used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It contains two active ingredients: trandolapril, an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, and verapamil, a calcium channel blocker.

Etymology

The name "trandolapril" is derived from the chemical structure of the drug, which includes a triazolo ring and a proline moiety. The "verapamil" part of the name is derived from the chemical structure of the drug, which includes a veratrum (a type of plant) alkaloid and an amine group.

Pharmacology

Trandolapril works by inhibiting the angiotensin converting enzyme, which is involved in the production of a substance called angiotensin II. Angiotensin II causes blood vessels to constrict and promotes the release of another substance called aldosterone, which increases the amount of sodium and water in the body. By inhibiting the production of angiotensin II, trandolapril helps to relax and widen blood vessels and reduce the amount of water reabsorbed by the kidneys, thereby lowering blood pressure.

Verapamil works by blocking calcium from entering the muscle cells of the heart and arteries. Calcium is needed for these cells to contract, so by blocking its entry, verapamil helps to relax and widen blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.

Side Effects

Common side effects of trandolapril/verapamil include dizziness, headache, cough, and fatigue. Less common side effects include rash, nausea, and abdominal pain. Rare but serious side effects include kidney failure, liver failure, and hypotension (low blood pressure).

Related Terms

• Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors
• Calcium channel blockers
• Hypertension