Calan Tablet 40mg

About Calan Tablet 40mg

Calan Tablet 40mg Uses

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Chronic stable angina (chest pain on exertion)
• Vasospastic angina, also called Prinzmetal angina
• Fast heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter
• Supraventricular tachycardia, to slow a rapid heartbeat

Calan Tablet 40mg Benefits

• Lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels
• Reduces the frequency and severity of chest pain episodes
• Slows an overly fast heart rate back to a safer range
• Lowers the oxygen demand on the heart muscle
• Immediate release 40mg strength allows flexible, low dose starting points for sensitive patients

What Experts Say

Verapamil works by blocking calcium entry into the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and inside the heart muscle. This relaxes the coronary arteries and peripheral blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart. It also slows the electrical signals in the heart, which helps control a fast or irregular heartbeat.

In Pakistani clinics, Verapamil is commonly chosen for patients who have both high blood pressure and a fast or irregular heartbeat, since one tablet can manage both problems together. Doctors usually start with a low dose of the immediate release form and adjust it gradually based on blood pressure readings, pulse checks and the patient's response.

Because Verapamil slows the heart's electrical conduction, doctors avoid combining it with certain other heart rhythm medicines unless the patient is closely monitored. Liver function is also checked in patients who need long term treatment. Regular follow up visits help catch side effects early and keep the dose safe over time.

Drug Class

• Calcium channel blocker
• Non dihydropyridine, phenylalkylamine type
• Antihypertensive and antiarrhythmic agent

Calan Tablet 40mg formula

• Verapamil Hydrochloride

Available forms

• Tablet

How to use Calan Tablet 40mg?

• Take Calan Tablet 40mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water
• Take it at the same time every day to keep a steady level in the body
• Take with or without food, but stay consistent with your chosen routine
• Do not stop the tablet suddenly without talking to your doctor
• Avoid grapefruit juice while on this medicine

Drug Interactions

• Beta Blockers: Combined use raises the risk of a very slow heart rate and heart block
• Digoxin: Verapamil can raise digoxin levels in the blood, increasing toxicity risk
• Statins: Verapamil can increase levels of certain statins such as simvastatin, raising muscle injury risk
• Grapefruit Juice: Increases Verapamil blood levels and the risk of side effects
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medicines such as ketoconazole and erythromycin can raise Verapamil levels
• Rifampin: Can reduce the effectiveness of Verapamil

Risks and warnings

• Heart Block: Verapamil can worsen existing heart block and should be avoided in certain conduction disorders
• Heart Failure: Use with caution in patients with weak heart pumping function since it can worsen symptoms
• Low Blood Pressure: Can cause blood pressure to drop too low, especially when combined with other blood pressure medicines
• Liver Impairment: Patients with liver disease need lower doses and closer monitoring
• Pregnancy And Breastfeeding: Use only if the doctor considers it clearly necessary
• Elderly Patients: May need a lower starting dose due to slower drug clearance

Calan Tablet 40mg Side Effects

• Constipation
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Swelling in the ankles or feet
• Flushing of the face
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Severe drop in blood pressure
• Worsening shortness of breath from heart failure
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash or swelling

Storage Conditions

• Store below 30 degrees Celsius in a cool, dry place
• Keep the tablets in their original packaging away from moisture and light
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use the tablets after the printed expiry date