Isoptin SR Uses

Isoptin SR is used to prevent health problems associated with long-term high blood pressure (such as heart disease, congestive heart failure, or strokes). However, it's important to note that the prescription medication is not a cure for high blood pressure. Possible off-label Isoptin SR uses may include treating chest pain, migraine headaches, and mania associated with bipolar disorder.

 

Isoptin SR Uses: An Overview

Isoptin SR® (verapamil hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
 
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers -- for example, 120/80. The top number is known as the systolic blood pressure, and the bottom number is the diastolic blood pressure. High blood pressure is defined as an average blood pressure higher than 140/90, with multiple blood pressure readings.
 
In clinical studies, Isoptin SR has been shown to significantly lower both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, the medication can decrease the risk of developing health problems, such as a stroke, heart disease, or congestive heart failure, which can occur with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). However, Isoptin SR is not a cure for the condition.
 

How Does Isoptin SR Work?

Isoptin SR is part of a class of drugs called
 calcium channel blockers. It helps to slow down the rate at which calcium moves into your heart and blood vessel walls. This, in turn, helps to relax the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and helps to lower blood pressure. It also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
 
There are two basic types of calcium channel blockers: dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine. The most important difference between the two types is that non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can slow down the heart rate, while dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers do not. Isoptin SR is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, which means that it can decrease the heart rate. As a result, it is useful for treating certain types of irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
 
Isoptin SR tablets contain tiny beads that are designed to begin slowly releasing the medication four to five hours after they are taken. Because the drug is typically taken at bedtime, the effects of Isoptin SR will peak in the early morning hours, when blood pressure naturally rises.
 
(Isoptin SR Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;