Drug Groups

approved

Description

A calcium channel blocker that is a class IV anti-arrhythmia agent. [PubChem]

Indication

For the treatment of hypertension, angina, and cluster headache prophylaxis.

Pharmacology

Verapamil is an L-type calcium channel blocker that also has antiarrythmic activity. The R-enantiomer is more effective at reducing blood pressure compared to the S-enantiomer. However, the S-enantiomer is 20 times more potent than the R-enantiomer at prolonging the PR interval in treating arrhythmias.

Toxicity

LD₅₀=8 mg/kg (i.v. in mice)

Affected Organisms

Absorption

90%

Half Life

2.8-7.4 hours

Protein Binding

90%

Elimination

Approximately 70% of an administered dose is excreted as metabolites in the urine and 16% or more in the feces within 5 days. About 3% to 4% is excreted in the urine as unchanged drug.

References

External Links