Verapamil

Verapamil

Chemical structure of Verapamil

3D model of Verapamil

Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker of the phenylalkylamine class. It is used in the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain types of cardiac arrhythmia. Verapamil is also used for the prevention of migraines and cluster headaches.

Medical uses

Verapamil is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain types of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). It works by relaxing the muscles of the heart and blood vessels. Verapamil is also effective in the management of supraventricular tachycardia and is sometimes used in the treatment of migraines and cluster headaches.

Mechanism of action

Verapamil works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions through the L-type calcium channels in the heart and blood vessel walls. This action decreases the force of contraction of the heart muscle, reduces heart rate, and dilates blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload.

Side effects

Common side effects of verapamil include constipation, dizziness, nausea, headache, and edema (swelling). Serious side effects can include hypotension (low blood pressure), bradycardia (slow heart rate), and heart failure.

Interactions

Verapamil can interact with other medications, including beta-blockers, digoxin, and statins. It can also affect the metabolism of drugs processed by the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, particularly CYP3A4.

History

Verapamil was first synthesized in the early 1960s and was introduced into clinical use in the 1970s. It was one of the first calcium channel blockers to be developed and has been widely used since then.

Related pages

• Calcium channel blocker
• Hypertension
• Angina pectoris
• Cardiac arrhythmia

References

• 
  Chemical structure of Verapamil
• 
  3D model of Verapamil from crystal structure