Calan (verapamil): what it does and what to watch for

Calan is the brand name for verapamil, a calcium channel blocker used for high blood pressure, certain heart rhythm problems, and chest pain. It slows the heart rate and relaxes blood vessels so blood pressure drops and symptoms ease. If you take it, you should know the common effects, key warnings, and how to use it safely—no medical fluff, just clear do-this/avoid-that advice.

How Calan works and when doctors prescribe it

Verapamil blocks calcium entry into heart and vessel cells. That reduces how hard the heart squeezes and slows conduction through the AV node. Doctors commonly use it for hypertension, angina, and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). It can also help control rapid ventricular rate in atrial fibrillation when appropriate.

There are immediate-release and extended-release versions. Immediate-release acts faster and may be used in acute settings; extended-release is for steady daily control. Do not switch forms without your prescriber's okay—dosing and timing differ.

Side effects, interactions, and practical tips

Common side effects are constipation, dizziness, low blood pressure, and slow heart rate. Verapamil is more likely than some other blood pressure meds to cause constipation and gingival enlargement (gum swelling). Serious issues include severe bradycardia, heart block, or worsening heart failure—tell your doctor if you have existing heart pumping problems.

Watch drug interactions. Combining Calan with beta blockers, digoxin, or some statins can raise risk of slow heart rate or other problems. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice—those raise verapamil levels and can boost side effects. If you’re on multiple heart drugs, ask a pharmacist to check interactions.

Monitoring is simple: check blood pressure and pulse at home, report lightheadedness or fainting, and get ECGs if your doctor asks. If you start feeling unusually tired, short of breath, or your ankles swell, call your provider—these can signal trouble.

Missed dose rules: for extended-release, take the dose when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose—then skip the missed one. Don’t double up. For immediate-release, follow the tighter schedule your prescriber gave.

Buying and storage tips: Calan is a prescription drug. Use a licensed pharmacy and watch out for too-good-to-be-true online stores. Check pharmacy accreditation, read recent reviews, and avoid vendors that don’t require a prescription. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture.

Want more? Our site has practical reads on heart-failure diuretics, safe online pharmacy buying, and drug interaction guides. If you have specific health questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist—this is a practical overview, not personalized medical advice.