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verapamil hydrochloride
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verapamil Hydrochloride | 100 mg/1 | 1665057 | View |
| Verapamil Hydrochloride | 120 mg/1 | 1665057 | View |
| Verapamil Hydrochloride | 180 mg/1 | 1665057 | View |
| Verapamil Hydrochloride | 200 mg/1 | 1665057 | View |
| Verapamil Hydrochloride | 240 mg/1 | 1665057 | View |
| Verapamil Hydrochloride | 300 mg/1 | 1665057 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium Channel Antagonists [MoA] | MoA | All 75 members |
| Calcium Channel Blocker [EPC] | EPC | All 55 members |
| Cytochrome P450 3A Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 89 members |
| Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 118 members |
| P-Glycoprotein Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 105 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 075138-001 | VERAPAMIL HYDROCHLORIDE | CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE | VERAPAMIL HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 075138-002 | VERAPAMIL HYDROCHLORIDE | CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE | VERAPAMIL HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB | ||
| 075138-003 | VERAPAMIL HYDROCHLORIDE | CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE | VERAPAMIL HYDROCHLORIDE | Prescription | AB |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 19 | Labeling | Approved | March 2, 2021 | Standard |
| Supplement | 17 | Labeling | Approved | September 27, 2019 | Standard |
| Supplement | 15 | Labeling | Approved | October 27, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | October 27, 2015 | Standard |
| Supplement | 12 | Labeling | Approved | August 12, 2010 | — |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | December 3, 2009 | — |
| Supplement | 3 | Labeling | Approved | March 30, 2001 | — |
| Supplement | 2 | Labeling | Approved | February 9, 2000 | — |
| Supplement | 1 | Labeling | Approved | November 4, 1999 | — |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | April 20, 1999 | — |
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260623). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) for oral use is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. These benefits have been seen in controlled trials of antihypertensive drugs from a wide variety of pharmacologic classes including this drug. Control of high blood pressure should be part of comprehensive cardiovascular risk management, including, as appropriate, lipid control, diabetes management, antithrombotic therapy, smoking cessation, exercise, and limited sodium intake. Many patients will require more than one drug to achieve blood pressure goals. For specific advice on goals and management, see published guidelines, such as those of the National High Blood Pressure Education Program's Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC). Numerous antihypertensive drugs, from a variety of pharmacologic classes and with different mechanisms of action, have been shown in randomized controlled trials to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and it can be concluded that it is blood pressure reduction, and not some other pharmacologic property of the drugs, that is largely responsible for those benefits. The largest and most consistent cardiovascular outcome benefit has been a reduction in the risk of stroke, but reductions in myocardial infarction and cardiovascular mortality also have been seen regularly. Elevated systolic or diastolic pressure causes increased cardiovascular risk, and the absolute risk increase per mmHg is greater at higher blood pressures, so that even modest reductions of severe hypertension can provide substantial benefit. Relative risk reduction from blood pressure reduction is similar across populations with varying absolute risk, so the absolute benefit is greater in patients who are at higher risk independent of their hypertension (for example, patients with diabetes or hyperlipidemia), and such patients would be expected to benefit from more aggressive treatment to a lower blood pressure goal. Some antihypertensive drugs have smaller blood pressure effects (as monotherapy) in black patients, and many antihypertensive drugs have additional approved indications and effects (e.g., on angina, heart failure, or diabetic kidney disease). These considerations may guide selection of therapy. Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) is a calcium channel blocker indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. ( 1 )
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION THE CONTENTS OF THE Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) CAPSULE SHOULD NOT BE CRUSHED OR CHEWED. Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) CAPSULES ARE TO BE SWALLOWED WHOLE OR THE ENTIRE CONTENTS OF THE CAPSULE SPRINKLED ONTO APPLESAUCE. Do not crush or chew capsule contents; swallow capsule whole or sprinkle entire contents onto applesauce ( 2.2 , 17 ) Usual dosage: 200 mg once daily at bedtime; if inadequate response, titrate upward to 300 mg, then 400 mg once daily at bedtime ( 2.1 ) Initial dose of 100 mg once daily at bedtime in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, elderly or low-weight patients ( 2.1 ) 2.1 Essential Hypertension Administer Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) once daily at bedtime. Clinical trials studied doses of 100 mg, 200 mg, 300 mg, and 400 mg. The usual daily dose of extended-release Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) in clinical trials has been 200 mg given by mouth once daily at bedtime. In rare instances, initial doses of 100 mg a day may be warranted in patients who have an increased response to verapamil [e.g. patients with impaired renal function, impaired hepatic function, elderly, low-weight patients, etc. ( see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5 , 8.6 , 8.7 ) )]. Base upward titration on therapeutic efficacy and safety evaluated approximately 24 hours after dosing. The antihypertensive effects of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) are evident within the first week of therapy. If an adequate response is not obtained with 200 mg of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM), the dose may be titrated upward in the following manner: a) 300 mg each evening b) 400 mg each evening (2 × 200 mg) When Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) is administered at bedtime, office evaluation of blood pressure during morning and early afternoon hours is essentially a measure of peak effect. The usual evaluation of trough effect, which sometimes might be needed to evaluate the appropriateness of any given dose of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM), would be just prior to bedtime. 2.2 Sprinkling the Capsule Contents on Food Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) capsules may also be administered by carefully opening the capsule and sprinkling the pellets onto one tablespoonful of applesauce. Swallow the applesauce immediately without chewing and follow with a glass of cool water to ensure complete swallowing of the pellets. The applesauce used should not be hot and it should be soft enough to be swallowed without chewing. Use any pellet/applesauce mixture immediately and do not store for future use. Absorption of the pellets sprinkled onto other foods has not been tested. This method of administration may be beneficial for patients who have difficulty swallowing whole capsules. Subdividing the contents of a Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) capsule is not recommended.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Extended-release capsules controlled onset: 100 mg, 200 mg, and 300 mg. 100 mg: white opaque cap and amethyst body imprinted KU/485 100 mg. 200 mg: amethyst opaque cap and amethyst body imprinted KU/486 200 mg. 300 mg: lavender opaque cap and amethyst body imprinted KU/487 300 mg. Extended-release capsules controlled-onset: 100 mg, 200 mg, and 300 mg (3)
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Verapamil is contraindicated in: Severe left ventricular dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Hypotension (less than 90 mm Hg systolic pressure) or cardiogenic shock. Sick sinus syndrome (except in patients with a functioning artificial ventricular pacemaker). Second- or third-degree AV block (except in patients with a functioning artificial ventricular pacemaker). Patients with atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation and an accessory bypass tract (e.g., Wolff-Parkinson-White, Lown-Ganong-Levine syndromes) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . • Severe left ventricular dysfunction ( 4 ) • Hypotension (<90 mmHg systolic pressure) or cardiogenic shock ( 4 ) • Sick sinus syndrome (except in patients with pacemaker) ( 4 ) • 2nd- or 3rd-degree AV block (except in patients with pacemaker) ( 4 ) • Atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation and an accessory bypass tract ( 4 )
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Congestive heart failure or pulmonary edema may develop ( 5.1 ) Hypotension/dizziness may occur ( 5.2 ) Elevated transaminases have occurred; monitor liver function ( 5.3 ) Ventricular fibrillation has occurred in patients with atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation and an accessory bypass tract ( 5.4 ) Reduce dose or discontinue therapy if marked first-degree AV block or progression to second- or third-degree AV block occurs ( 5.5 ) Sinus bradycardia, pulmonary edema, severe hypotension, second-degree AV block, sinus arrest, and death occurred in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy ( 5.6 ) 5.1 Heart Failure Verapamil has a negative inotropic effect which, in most patients, is compensated by its afterload reduction (decreased systemic vascular resistance) properties without a net impairment of ventricular performance. In previous clinical experience with 4,954 patients primarily with immediate-release verapamil, 87 (1.8%) developed congestive heart failure or pulmonary edema. Avoid verapamil in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction (e.g., ejection fraction less than 30% or moderate to severe symptoms of cardiac failure) and in patients with any degree of ventricular dysfunction if they are receiving a beta-adrenergic blocker [see Drug Interactions ( 7.4 )]. Control patients with milder ventricular dysfunction, if possible, with optimum doses of digitalis and/or diuretics before verapamil treatment is started [see Drug Interactions ( 7.5 )] . 5.2 Hypotension Occasionally, the pharmacologic action of verapamil may produce a decrease in blood pressure below normal levels which may result in dizziness or symptomatic hypotension. In hypertensive patients, decreases in blood pressure below normal are unusual. The incidence of hypotension observed in 4,954 patients enrolled in clinical trials of other verapamil formulations was 2.5% [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . In clinical studies of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM), 1.7% of the patients developed significant hypotension. Tilt table testing (60 degrees) was not able to induce orthostatic hypotension. 5.3 Elevated Liver Enzymes Elevations of transaminases with and without concomitant elevations in alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin have been reported. Such elevations have sometimes been transient and may disappear even in the face of continued verapamil treatment. Several cases of hepatocellular injury related to verapamil have been proven by rechallenge; half of these had clinical symptoms (malaise, fever, and/or right upper quadrant pain) in addition to elevations of SGOT, SGPT, and alkaline phosphatase. Periodic monitoring of liver function in patients receiving verapamil is therefore prudent. 5.4 Accessory Bypass Tract (Wolff-Parkinson-White or Lown-Ganong-Levine) Some patients with paroxysmal and/or chronic atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation and a coexisting accessory AV pathway have developed increased antegrade conduction across the accessory pathway bypassing the AV node, producing a very rapid ventricular response or ventricular fibrillation after receiving intravenous verapamil (or digitalis). Although a risk of this occurring with oral verapamil has not been established, such patients receiving oral verapamil may be at risk and its use in these patients is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4) ]. Treatment is usually DC-cardioversion. Cardioversion has been used safely and effectively after oral verapamil. 5.5 Atrioventricular Block The effect of verapamil on AV conduction and the SA node may lead to asymptomatic first-degree AV block and transient bradycardia, sometimes accompanied by nodal escape rhythms. PR interval prolongation is correlated with verapamil plasma concentrations, especially during the early titration phase of therapy. Higher degrees of AV block, however, were infrequently (0.8%) observed in previous verapamil clinical trials [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )]. Marked first-degree …
Warnings
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNINGS Heart Failure Verapamil has a negative inotropic effect which, in most patients, is compensated by its afterload reduction (decreased systemic vascular resistance) properties without a net impairment of ventricular performance. In clinical experience with 4,954 patients, 87 (1.8%) developed congestive heart failure or pulmonary edema. Verapamil should be avoided in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction (e.g., ejection fraction less than 30% or moderate to severe symptoms of cardiac failure) and in patients with any degree of ventricular dysfunction if they are receiving a beta-adrenergic blocker. (See PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions .) Patients with milder ventricular dysfunction should, if possible, be controlled with optimum doses of digitalis and/or diuretics before verapamil treatment (note interactions with digoxin under: PRECAUTIONS ). Hypotension Occasionally, the pharmacologic action of verapamil may produce a decrease in blood pressure below normal levels which may result in dizziness or symptomatic hypotension. The incidence of hypotension observed in 4,954 patients enrolled in clinical trials was 2.5%. In hypertensive patients, decreases in blood pressure below normal are unusual. Tilt table testing (60 degrees) was not able to induce orthostatic hypotension. Elevated Liver Enzymes Elevations of transaminases with and without concomitant elevations in alkaline phosphatase and bilirubin have been reported. Such elevations have sometimes been transient and may disappear even in the face of continued verapamil treatment. Several cases of hepatocellular injury related to verapamil have been proven by rechallenge; half of these had clinical symptoms (malaise, fever, and/or right upper quadrant pain) in addition to elevations of SGOT, SGPT and alkaline phosphatase. Periodic monitoring of liver function in patients receiving verapamil is therefore prudent. Accessory Bypass Tract (Wolff-Parkinson-White or Lown-Ganong-Levine) Some patients with paroxysmal and/or chronic atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation and a coexisting accessory AV pathway have developed increased antegrade conduction across the accessory pathway bypassing the AV node, producing a very rapid ventricular response or ventricular fibrillation after receiving intravenous verapamil (or digitalis). Although a risk of this occurring with oral verapamil has not been established, such patients receiving oral verapamil may be at risk and its use in these patients is contraindicated. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS .) Treatment is usually DC-cardioversion. Cardioversion has been used safely and effectively after oral verapamil. Atrioventricular Block The effect of verapamil on AV conduction and the SA node may lead to asymptomatic first-degree AV block and transient bradycardia, sometimes accompanied by nodal escape rhythms. PR interval prolongation is correlated with verapamil plasma concentrations, especially during the early titration phase of therapy. Higher degrees of AV block, however, were infrequently (0.8%) observed. Marked first-degree block or progressive development to second- or third-degree AV block requires a reduction in dosage or, in rare instances, discontinuation of verapamil HCl and institution of appropriate therapy depending upon the clinical situation. Patients with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (IHSS) In 120 patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (most of them refractory or intolerant to propranolol) who received therapy with verapamil at doses up to 720 mg/day, a variety of serious adverse effects were seen. Three patients died in pulmonary edema; all had severe left ventricular outflow obstruction and a past history of left ventricular dysfunction. Eight other patients had pulmonary edema and/or severe hypotension; abnormally high (over 20 mmHg) capillary wedge pressure and a marked left ventricular outflow obstruction were present in most of these patients. Concomitant administration of quinidine (see PRECAUTIONS: Drug Intera …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 3% and more common than in patients treated with placebo) are headache, infection, constipation, flu syndrome, peripheral edema, dizziness, pharyngitis, and sinusitis ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Chartwell RX, LLC. at 1-845-232-1683 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The adverse reaction information from clinical trials does, however, provide a basis for identifying the adverse events that appear to be related to drug use and for approximating rates. Serious adverse reactions are uncommon when verapamil therapy is initiated with upward dose titration within the recommended single and total daily dose. See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.2 , 5.3 , 5.4 , 5.5 ) for discussion of heart failure, hypotension, elevated liver enzymes, AV block, and rapid ventricular response. Reversible (upon discontinuation of verapamil) non-obstructive, paralytic ileus has been infrequently reported in association with the use of verapamil. The following reactions (Table 1) to orally administered Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) occurred at rates of 2.0% or greater or occurred at lower rates but appeared to be drug-related in clinical trials in hypertension. Table 1. Adverse Events Occurring in ≥ 2% of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) Patients in Placebo- Controlled Clinical Trials All Doses Studied N = 297 % Placebo N = 116 % All Doses Studied N = 297 % Placebo N = 116 % Headache 12.1 11.2 Dyspepsia 2.7 1.7 Infection 12.1* 6.9 Rhinitis 2.7 2.6 Constipation 8.8* 0.9 Diarrhea 2.4 1.7 Flu Syndrome 3.7 2.6 Pain 2.4 1.7 Peripheral edema 3.7 0.9 Edema 1.7 0.0 Dizziness 3.0 0.9 Nausea 1.7 0.0 Pharyngitis 3.0 2.6 Accidental Injury 1.5 0.0 Sinusitis 3.0 2.6 * Infection, primarily upper respiratory infection (URI) and unrelated to study medication. Constipation was typically mild and easily manageable. At the usual once-daily dose of 200 mg, the observed incidence of constipation was 3.9%. In previous experience with other formulations of verapamil (N=4,954) the following reactions (Table 2) have occurred at rates greater than 1.0% or occurred at lower rates but appeared clearly drug related in clinical trials in 4,954 patients. Table 2. Adverse Events Occurring in >1% (or lower rates and clearly drug related) of Patients with Other Verapamil Formulations Constipation 7.3% Fatigue 1.7% Dizziness 3.3% Bradycardia (HR<50/min) 1.4% Nausea 2.7% Rash 1.2% Hypotension 2.5% AV block (total 1°, 2°, 3°) 1.2% Headache 2.2% AV block (2° and 3°) 0.8% Edema 1.9% Flushing 0.6% CHF/Pulmonary Edema 1.8% In clinical trials related to the control of ventricular response in patients taking digoxin who had atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter, ventricular rate below 50/min at rest occurred in 15% of patients and asymptomatic hypotension occurred in 5% of patients. 6.2 Open Trials / Postmarketing Experience The following reactions, reported with orally administered verapamil in 2.0% or less of patients, occurred under conditions (open verapamil trials, postmarketing experience [reactions added since the initial US approval of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) in 1998 are marked with an asterisk]) where a causal relationship is uncertain; they are listed to alert the physician to a possible relationship: Cardiovascular : angina pectoris, atrioventricular dissociation, ECG Abnormal*, chest pain, claudication, hypertension*, myocardial infarction, palpitations, purpura (vasculitis), syncope. Digestive System : diarrhea, dry mouth, elevated liver enzymes* [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] , gastrointestinal distress, g …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS CYP3A4 inhibitors increase verapamil levels ( 7.1 ) CYP3A4 inducers decrease verapamil levels ( 7.1 ) If simvastatin is co-administered with verapamil, do not exceed doses greater than 10 mg daily of simvastatin ( 7.2 ) If lovastatin is co-administered with verapamil, do not exceed doses greater than 40 mg daily of lovastatin ( 7.2 ) Grapefruit juice may significantly increase verapamil levels ( 7.3 ) Beta blockers: reports of excess bradycardia and AV block, including complete heart block; monitor closely ( 7.4 ) Digoxin levels can increase by 50 to 75%; reduce digoxin dose ( 7.5 ) Alcohol elimination inhibited resulting in elevated ethanol levels ( 7.6) 7.1 CYP3A4 Inhibitors and Inducers In vitro metabolic studies indicate that verapamil is metabolized by cytochrome P450, CYP3A4, CYP1A2, and CYP2C. Clinically significant interactions have been reported with inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g., erythromycin, ritonavir) causing elevation of plasma levels of verapamil. Hypotension, bradyarrhythmias, and lactic acidosis have been observed in patients receiving concurrent telithromycin, an antibiotic in the ketolide class of antibiotics. Inducers of CYP3A4 (e.g., rifampin) have caused a lowering of plasma levels of verapamil. Ivabradine Concurrent use of verapamil increases exposure to ivabradine and may exacerbate bradycardia and conduction disturbances. Avoid concomitant use of ivabradine and verapamil. 7.2 HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors The use of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that are CYP3A4 substrates in combination with verapamil has been associated with reports of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis. Co-administration of multiple doses of 10 mg of verapamil with 80 mg simvastatin resulted in exposure to simvastatin 2.5-fold that following simvastatin alone. Limit the dose of simvastatin in patients on verapamil to 10 mg daily. Limit the daily dose of lovastatin to 40 mg. Lower starting and maintenance doses of other CYP3A4 substrates (e.g., atorvastatin) may be required as verapamil may increase the plasma concentration of these drugs. 7.3 Grapefruit Juice Grapefruit juice may significantly increase concentrations of verapamil. Grapefruit juice given to nine healthy volunteers increased S- and R- verapamil AUC 0-12 by 36% and 28%, respectively. Steady state Cmax and Cmin of S-verapamil increased by 57% and 16.7%, respectively with grapefruit juice compared to control. Similarly, Cmax and Cmin of R-verapamil increased by 40% and 13%, respectively. Grapefruit juice did not affect half-life, nor was there a significant change in AUC 0-12 ratio R/S compared to control. Grapefruit juice did not cause a significant difference in the pharmacokinetics of norverapamil. This increase in verapamil plasma concentration is not expected to have any clinical consequences. 7.4 Beta Blockers Concomitant therapy with beta-adrenergic blockers and verapamil may result in additive negative effects on heart rate, atrioventricular conduction, and/or cardiac contractility. The combination of extended-release verapamil and beta-adrenergic blocking agents has not been studied. However, there have been reports of excess bradycardia and AV block, including complete heart block, when the combination has been used for the treatment of hypertension. For hypertensive patients, the risk of combined therapy may outweigh the potential benefits. The combination should be used only with caution and close monitoring. Asymptomatic bradycardia (36 beats/min) with a wandering atrial pacemaker has been observed in a patient receiving concomitant timolol (a beta-adrenergic blocker) eyedrops and oral verapamil. A decrease in metoprolol and propranolol clearance has been observed when either drug is administered concomitantly with verapamil. A variable effect has been seen when verapamil and atenolol were given together. 7.5 Digitalis Consider reducing digoxin dose when verapamil and digoxin are to be given together. Monitor digoxin level periodically during therapy. Chr …
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Use during pregnancy only if potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus ( 8.1 ) Discontinue nursing while verapamil is administered ( 8.3 ) Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established ( 8.4 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Category C. Reproduction studies have been performed in rabbits and rats at oral doses up to 1.9 (15 mg/kg/day) and 7.5 (60 mg/kg/day) times the human oral daily dose, respectively, and have revealed no evidence of teratogenicity. In the rat, however, this multiple of the human dose was embryocidal and retarded fetal growth and development, probably because of adverse maternal effects reflected in reduced weight gains of the dams. This oral dose has also been shown to cause hypotension in rats. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Verapamil should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Verapamil crosses the placental barrier and can be detected in umbilical vein blood at delivery. 8.2 Labor and Delivery It is not known whether the use of verapamil during labor or delivery has immediate or delayed adverse effects on the fetus, or whether it prolongs the duration of labor or increases the need for forceps delivery or other obstetric intervention. Such adverse experiences have not been reported in the literature, despite a long history of use of verapamil in Europe in the treatment of cardiac side effects of beta-adrenergic agonist agents used to treat premature labor. 8.3 Nursing Mothers Verapamil is excreted into human milk. In case studies where verapamil concentration in human milk was calculated, the nursing infant doses ranged from less than 0.01% to 0.1% of the mother's verapamil dose. Consider possible infant exposure when verapamil is administered to a nursing woman. 8.4 Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical studies of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) were not adequate to determine if subjects aged 65 or over respond differently from younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in response between the elderly and younger patients; however, greater sensitivity to Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) by some older individuals cannot be ruled out. Aging may affect the pharmacokinetics of verapamil. Elimination half-life may be prolonged in the elderly [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)] . Verapamil is highly metabolized by the liver, and about 70% of the administered dose is excreted as metabolites in the urine. Clinical circumstances, some of which may be more common in the elderly, such as hepatic or renal impairment, should be considered [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6, 8.7)] . In general, lower initial doses of Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) may be warranted in the elderly [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)] . 8.6 Impaired Hepatic Function Since verapamil is highly metabolized by the liver, consider lower dosages and closely monitor responses to the drug in patients with impaired hepatic function. Severe liver dysfunction prolongs the elimination half-life of immediate-release verapamil to about 14 to 16 hours; hence, approximately 30% of the dose given to patients with normal liver function should be administered to these patients. Monitor for abnormal prolongation of the PR interval or other signs of excessive pharmacologic effects [see Overdosage (10)] . 8.7 Impaired Renal Function About 70% of an administered dose of verapamil is excreted as metabolites in the urine. Until further data are available, monitor these patients for abnormal prolongation of the PR interval or other signs of overdosage [see Overdosage (10)] . 8.8 Attenuated (decreased) Neuromuscular Transmission It has been reported that verapamil decreases neuromuscular transmission in patients w …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Verapamil is a calcium ion influx inhibitor (L-type calcium channel blocker or calcium channel antagonist). Verapamil exerts its pharmacologic effects by selectively inhibiting the transmembrane influx of ionic calcium into arterial smooth muscle as well as in conductile and contractile myocardial cells without altering serum calcium concentrations. Verapamil binding is voltage-dependent with affinity increasing as the vascular smooth muscle membrane potential is reduced. In addition, verapamil binding is frequency dependent and apparent affinity increases with increased frequency of depolarizing stimulus. The L-type calcium channel is an oligomeric structure consisting of five putative subunits designated alpha-1, alpha-2, beta, tau, and epsilon. Biochemical evidence points to separate binding sites for 1,4-dihydropyridines, phenylalkylamines, and the benzothiazepines (all located on the alpha-1 subunit). Although they share a similar mechanism of action, calcium channel blockers represent three heterogeneous categories of drugs with differing vascular-cardiac selectivity ratios.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) is a calcium ion influx inhibitor (slow channel blocker or calcium ion antagonist). Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) is available for oral administration as a 100 mg hard gelatin capsule (white opaque cap/amethyst body), a 200 mg hard gelatin capsule (amethyst opaque cap/amethyst body), and as a 300 mg hard gelatin capsule (lavender opaque cap/amethyst body). Verapamil is administered as a racemic mixture of the R and S enantiomers. The structural formulae of the verapamil HCl enantiomers are: C 27 H 38 N 2 O 4 ∙HCl M.W.=491.07 Chemical name: Benzeneacetonitrile, α-[3-[[2-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)ethyl]methylamino]propyl]- 3,4-dimethoxy-α-(1-methylethyl)-, monohydrochloride,(±)-. Verapamil HCl is an almost white, crystalline powder, practically free of odor, with a bitter taste. It is soluble in water, chloroform and methanol. Verapamil HCl is not structurally related to other cardioactive drugs. In addition to verapamil HCl the Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) capsule contains the following inactive ingredients: D&C Red #28, FD & C Blue #1, FD&C red #40, fumaric acid, gelatin, povidone, shellac, silicon dioxide, sodium lauryl sulfate, starch, sugar spheres, talc, and titanium dioxide. Chemical Structure System Components and Performance: Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) uses the proprietary CODAS ® (Chronotherapeutic Oral Drug Absorption System) technology, which is designed for bedtime dosing, incorporating a 4 to 5-hour delay in drug delivery. The controlled-onset delivery system results in a maximum plasma concentration (C max ) of verapamil in the morning hours. These pellet filled capsules provide for extended-release of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract. The Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) formulation has been designed to initiate the release of verapamil 4-5 hours after ingestion. This delay is introduced by the level of non-enteric release-controlling polymer applied to drug loaded beads. The release-controlling polymer is a combination of water soluble and water insoluble polymers. As water from the gastrointestinal tract comes into contact with the polymer coated beads, the water soluble polymer slowly dissolves and the drug diffuses through the resulting pores in the coating. The water insoluble polymer continues to act as a barrier, maintaining the controlled release of the drug. The rate of release is essentially independent of pH, posture and food. Multiparticulate systems such as Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-release Capsules (PM) have been shown to be independent of gastrointestinal motility.
Overdosage
openFDA Drug LabelingOVERDOSAGE There is no specific antidote for verapamil overdosage; treatment should be supportive. Delayed pharmacodynamic consequences may occur with extended-release formulations, and patients should be observed for at least 48 hours, preferably under continuous hospital care. Reported effects include hypotension, bradycardia, cardiac conduction defects, arrhythmias, hyperglycemia, and decreased mental status. In addition, there have been literature reports of non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema in patients taking large overdoses of verapamil (up to approximately 9 g). In acute overdosage, gastrointestinal decontamination with cathartics and whole bowel irrigation should be considered. Calcium, inotropes (i.e., isoproterenol, dopamine, and glucagon), atropine, vasopressors (i.e., norepinephrine, and epinephrine), and cardiac pacing have been used with variable results to reverse hypotension and myocardial depression. In a few reported cases, overdose with calcium channel blockers that was initially refractory to atropine became more responsive to this treatment when the patients received large doses (close to 1 g/hour for more than 24 hours) of calcium chloride. Calcium chloride is preferred to calcium gluconate since it provides 3 times more calcium per volume. Asystole should be handled by the usual measures including cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Verapamil cannot be removed by hemodialysis.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug LabelingHOW SUPPLIED Verapamil Hydrochloride Extended-Release Capsules, USP are available containing 120 mg, 180 mg or 240 mg of verapamil hydrochloride, USP. The 120 mg capsules are hard-shell gelatin capsules with a bluish green opaque cap and white opaque body filled with white to off-white beads. The capsules are radially printed with MYLAN over 6320 in black ink on both the cap and the body. They are available as follows: NDC 0378-6320-01 bottles of 100 capsules The 180 mg capsules are hard-shell gelatin capsules with a bluish green opaque cap and light green opaque body filled with white to off-white beads. The capsules are radially printed with MYLAN over 6380 in black ink on both the cap and the body. They are available as follows: NDC 0378-6380-01 bottles of 100 capsules The 240 mg capsules are hard-shell gelatin capsules with a bluish green opaque cap and bluish green opaque body filled with white to off-white beads. The capsules are radially printed with MYLAN over 6440 in black ink on both the cap and the body. They are available as follows: NDC 0378-6440-01 bottles of 100 capsules Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Brief digressions above 25°C while not detrimental, should be avoided. Avoid excessive heat. Protect from moisture. Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP using a child-resistant closure. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Mylan at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. Manufactured for: Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A. Manufactured by: Mylan Laboratories Limited Hyderabad — 500 096, India 75080580 Revised: 6/2021 MX:CVERER:R1
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: VERAPAMIL HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 62135-532-30 | 62135-532 | Chartwell RX, LLC | 30 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (62135-532-30) | March 30, 2023 |
| 51079-917-20 | 51079-917 | Mylan Institutional Inc. | 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON (51079-917-20) / 1 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (51079-917-01) | October 1, 1999 |
| 0378-6320-01 | 0378-6320 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0378-6320-01) | May 20, 1999 |
| 0378-6380-01 | 0378-6380 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0378-6380-01) | May 20, 1999 |
| 0378-6440-01 | 0378-6440 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0378-6440-01) | May 20, 1999 |
| 48433-145-20 | 48433-145 | Safecor Health LLC | 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON (48433-145-20) / 1 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK (48433-145-01) | May 5, 2026 |
| 60274-100-01 | 60274-100 | Societal CDMO Gainesville, LLC | 130000 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 DRUM (60274-100-01) | November 25, 1998 |
| 60274-200-01 | 60274-200 | Societal CDMO Gainesville, LLC | 68000 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 DRUM (60274-200-01) | November 25, 1998 |
| 60274-300-01 | 60274-300 | Societal CDMO Gainesville, LLC | 54000 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 DRUM (60274-300-01) | November 25, 1998 |
| 52536-485-37 | 52536-485 | Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (52536-485-37) | November 26, 2024 |
| 52536-486-37 | 52536-486 | Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (52536-486-37) | November 26, 2024 |
| 52536-487-37 | 52536-487 | Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | 100 CAPSULE, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE (52536-487-37) | November 26, 2024 |
| 62135-532 | 62135-532 | Chartwell RX, LLC | — | November 25, 1998 |
| 51079-917 | 51079-917 | Mylan Institutional Inc. | — | October 1, 1999 |
| 0378-6320 | 0378-6320 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | May 20, 1999 |
| 0378-6380 | 0378-6380 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | May 20, 1999 |
| 0378-6440 | 0378-6440 | Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. | — | May 20, 1999 |
| 48433-145 | 48433-145 | Safecor Health LLC | — | May 5, 2026 |
| 60274-100 | 60274-100 | Societal CDMO Gainesville, LLC | — | November 25, 1998 |
| 60274-200 | 60274-200 | Societal CDMO Gainesville, LLC | — | November 25, 1998 |
| 60274-300 | 60274-300 | Societal CDMO Gainesville, LLC | — | November 25, 1998 |
| 52536-485 | 52536-485 | Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | November 26, 2024 |
| 52536-486 | 52536-486 | Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | November 26, 2024 |
| 52536-487 | 52536-487 | Wilshire Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | — | November 26, 2024 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.