Verapamil (Calan) Nursing Considerations

Generic Name

verapamil

Trade Name

Isoptin

Indication

hypertension, angina, SVT, migraine

Action

prevents transport of calcium, leading to decreased contraction, decreases SA and AV node conduction

Therapeutic Class

antianginals, antiarrhythmic, antihypertensive, vascular headache suppressants

Pharmacologic Class

Ca Channel Blocker

Nursing Considerations

• don’t use with 2nd and 3rd degree heartblock
• don’t use with systolic BP < 90
• may cause anxiety, confusion, cough, dyspnea, arrhythmias, CHF, bradycardia, hypotension,
elevated liver enzymes, Steven’s Johnson syndrome, hyperglycemia, gingival hyperplasia
• grapefruit juice can increase effects
• can increase levels of digoxin
• monitor heart rhythm, intake and output, blood pressure
• assess angina