Calaptin SR (verapamil SR) is a calcium channel blocker used in treating a number of conditions, most commonly:

• Hypertension
• Arrhythmia
• Rapid heartbeat
• Angina
• Migraines
• Cluster headaches

The SR in this product stands for sustained release, meaning it's only taken once or twice per day. It is also available as regular tablets, taken two or three times per day. Some patients have better results with the regular tablet, while others do fine with the SR version.

How Calaptin SR Works

As a calcium channel blocker, Calaptin SR influences the cardiovascular system in a number of ways. The most significant effects for most patients are:

• Inhibits spasm of coronary arteries
• Relaxes coronary arteries
• Improves the heart's supply of oxygen
• Helps regulate heartbeat
• Decreases vascular resistance

In other words, the medication slows and relaxes the heart, which reduces the heart's need for oxygen. It also widens and relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow. All together, Calaptin SR reduces blood pressure, stabilizes rapid or erratic heartbeat, and improves oxygen supply to the heart.

Note that for angina, migraines, cluster headaches, and similar conditions, Calaptin SR is a preventative treatment, taken over the long term to reduces the frequency and severity of episodes. As a long-term treatment, it will provide no benefit if an episode does occur; patients should keep fast-acting rescue treatments on hand in case they're needed.

Unfortunately this medication is not for everyone; patients should take Calaptin SR with caution or avoid it all together if there is a history of:

• Low blood pressure
• Left ventricular dysfunction in the heart
• Cardiogenic shock
• Sick sinus syndrome without a pacemaker
• Second- or third-degree AV block without a pacemaker

The above don't necessarily rule out Calaptin SR use (though they often do), but patients should discuss risks and warning signs to be alert for with a doctor prior to starting treatment.

Dosage & Administration

In many respects treatment with Calaptin SR is quite similar regardless of what's being treated, with the biggest variance being dosage strength, which is best individualized according to personal variables. The medication is typically taken once or twice per day.

Treatment usually starts the same:

• Take 180 mg per day in the morning.
• Tablets should be swallowed whole and taken with food.

The initial dose may need to be adjusted; effects should be checked after one or two weeks of treatment for hypertension, three to four weeks for other conditions. If adjustments are needed there are several options:

• Take 240 mg once per day in the morning; or
• Take 120 mg in the morning and 120 mg in the evening; or
• Take 240 mg in the morning and 120 mg in the evening; or
• Take 240 mg every 12 hours.

Doses greater than 240 mg per day are typically reserved for heart conditions. For migraines and cluster headaches treatment is more likely 240 mg per day or less, though there may be exceptions. Patients taking Calaptin SR will likely need frequent heart and blood pressure tests until the ideal dosage is established, regardless of why it's being taken.

It takes two weeks to one month of treatment, including following dosage adjustments, for full benefit to be reached.

Calaptin SR can produce side effects and can interact with other medications. Patients should discuss these carefully with a doctor, and always double-check with a doctor before adding a new medication. Don't be afraid to bring up any concerning side effects or symptoms during treatment.