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Verapamil SR is a sustained-release form of verapamil, a prescription medication used to treat conditions like high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders. The SR (sustained-release) version releases the medication gradually, so it typically only needs to be taken once or twice a day, depending on the prescription.
Verapamil SR works by blocking calcium channels in the heart and blood vessel walls. Calcium is needed for muscle contraction, so when these channels are blocked:
You may qualify for verapamil SR if you have conditions like high blood pressure, chronic chest pain (angina), or certain types of irregular heartbeats (such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia).
A healthcare provider will determine if it’s right for you based on your medical history, current medications, blood pressure readings, heart function, and any existing health conditions. If you're considering treatment, they may also order labs or an EKG to ensure it's a safe option.
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Verapamil SR might be right for you if you’re dealing with high blood pressure, chest pain from angina, or certain irregular heart rhythms, and your provider believes a calcium channel blocker could help.
To know for sure, a healthcare provider will review your symptoms, heart health, other medical conditions, and current medications. They’ll also consider whether you’ve had side effects from similar medications or need a longer-acting option like the sustained-release (SR) form. If it’s a good fit, they’ll tailor the dose to your needs and monitor your response.
Verapamil SR usually starts working within a few hours of your first dose, but the full effects – especially for lowering blood pressure or managing chronic conditions like angina or arrhythmias – may take a few days to a couple of weeks to stabilize.
Because it’s a sustained-release form, it maintains a more even level of the medication in your system, which helps with long-term control. Your healthcare provider will monitor how you're responding and may adjust your dose as needed.
The main difference between verapamil SR and regular (immediate-release) verapamil is how quickly the medication is released and absorbed in your body: Verapamil (immediate-release) works quickly and typically needs to be taken multiple times a day (usually three to four times daily).
Hair loss isn’t a common side effect of verapamil, but it has been reported in rare cases. If you notice unusual hair thinning while taking verapamil SR or any form of the medication, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether the medication is the likely cause or if something else – like stress, nutrition, or another health issue – may be contributing.
Weight gain is not a common side effect of verapamil, but some people may experience fluid retention or mild swelling (especially in the ankles), which can lead to a slight increase in weight. If you notice unexpected weight changes, bloating, or swelling while taking verapamil, let your healthcare provider know – they can assess whether it’s medication-related and adjust your treatment if needed.
No, verapamil is not a blood thinner. It’s a calcium channel blocker, which works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate to help lower blood pressure and treat certain heart rhythm disorders. Unlike blood thinners (anticoagulants or antiplatelets), verapamil does not prevent blood clots. If you need both blood pressure control and clot prevention, your provider may prescribe verapamil alongside a separate blood-thinning medication.
Yes, you can usually take pain relief medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) with verapamil safely. However, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) – should be used with caution. NSAIDs can potentially:
Be sure to check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining medications, especially if you take verapamil for heart or blood pressure conditions.
The most common side effects of verapamil XR include:
These side effects often improve as your body adjusts. If they persist or become bothersome, it’s a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider.
Yes! With LifeMD, you can connect with a licensed healthcare provider from the comfort of your home within an hour. If appropriate, your provider may prescribe a medication and send it directly to your local pharmacy.
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