Verelan Pm

Verelan PM is a brand name for the extended-release formulation of verapamil, a calcium channel blocker used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), angina pectoris, and certain types of cardiac arrhythmia. Verelan PM is designed for once-daily administration to provide 24-hour control of blood pressure.

Overview

Verapamil, the active ingredient in Verelan PM, works by relaxing the muscles of the heart and blood vessels. It does this by blocking the entry of calcium into the muscle cells of the heart and arteries. Since calcium is essential for muscle contraction, reducing its entry leads to less forceful heart contractions and a widening of the arteries, which in turn lowers blood pressure and decreases the heart's oxygen demand.

Indications

Verelan PM is primarily indicated for the management of essential hypertension, either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. It is also used in the management of stable, chronic angina pectoris and for the control of certain types of arrhythmias.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of Verelan PM are characterized by its extended-release mechanism, which allows for once-daily dosing. After oral administration, verapamil is absorbed with peak plasma concentrations occurring later than with immediate-release formulations. The drug is extensively metabolized in the liver, and its metabolites, along with unchanged drug, are excreted in the urine.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Verelan PM include headache, constipation, dizziness, and fatigue. Less common but more serious side effects may include severe hypotension, bradycardia, and congestive heart failure.

Contraindications

Verelan PM is contraindicated in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction, hypotension (systolic pressure less than 90 mm Hg), cardiogenic shock, and in those with a history of heart block (second or third degree), unless they have a functioning artificial pacemaker. It is also contraindicated in patients with atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation and an accessory bypass tract (Wolff-Parkinson-White, Lown-Ganong-Levine syndromes).

Drug Interactions

Verelan PM can interact with a wide range of drugs, including other antihypertensive agents, leading to an additive effect on lowering blood pressure. It can also interact with digoxin, increasing its plasma levels, and with simvastatin, increasing the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Verelan PM must be individualized on the basis of both effectiveness and tolerance. Patients are usually started on a low dose, which is then adjusted according to the patient's response to the drug.

Conclusion

Verelan PM offers a convenient once-daily dosing schedule for patients requiring long-term management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain cardiac arrhythmias. However, like all medications, it must be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, with careful consideration of its contraindications, potential side effects, and drug interactions.