Verapamil (Calan, Isoptin, Verelan)
Verapamil is one of the calcium channel blocker drugs used to treat angina pectoris, heart arrhythmias, and high blood pressure.
Calcium
Calcium supplementation interferes with the blood pressure–lowering effects of this
drug. People taking verapamil to lower blood pressure should therefore not supplement
calcium without talking with the prescribing doctor.
On the other hand, people who take verapamil to treat other conditions, such as angina or heart arrhythmias, should discuss with their physicians the possibility of using low-level (as little as 27 mg per day) calcium supplementation, to reduce excessive blood pressure–lowering effects caused by verapamil in those who do not have high blood pressure.
1References:
1. Kuhn M, Schriger DL. Low-dose calcium pretreatment to prevent verapamil-induced hypotension. Am Heart J 1992;124:231–32.
Please read the disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article.
Those wanting to insure they have complete information about possible interactions between a prescription or over-the-counter medication and specific nutrients, herbs, or other medications should talk with the prescribing physician, a pharmacist, or both.
Copyright © 1998 Virtual Health, LLC
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your physician, nutritionally-oriented health care practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.The information presented in HealthNotes Online is for informational purposes only.