Verapamil belongs to a class of medicines known as a calcium-channel blockers. It is used to treat a number of heart and blood vessel-related conditions such as abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), high blood pressure (hypertension) and angina (heart related chest pain).

Verapamil works by relaxing the blood vessels which helps to reduce the workload of the heart. It also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart and slows electrical activity in the heart to control the heart rate.

You should keep on taking Verapamil for the duration advised by your doctor. You may need to take it lifelong. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel well or your blood pressure is well controlled. Stopping the medication suddenly may again increase your blood pressure levels or even worsen your condition.

Generally, Verapamil is considered safe to use. However, it is advised to use it in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. It may cause some side effects that are temporary and usually resolve on their own. Consult your doctor, who will guide you ways to cope up with them.

Yes, Verapamil can cause dizziness as a side effect. If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down until the symptoms pass. Do not worry, this is temporary and usually goes away as the treatment continues. Also, you should avoid alcohol while taking it, as it may worsen the dizziness.

The serious side effects of Verapamil include severe allergic reaction, yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea and extreme tiredness. It may also cause unusual bleeding or bruising, lack of energy, loss of appetite and pain in the stomach. One may also experience flu-like symptoms and an increase in the frequency or severity of chest pain (angina). If you experience any such symptoms immediately contact your doctor and seek medical help.

You should not take Verapamil if you are allergic to it, have an irregular or slow heartbeat, heart failure and low blood pressure. It should not be given to children and women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant.

Symptoms of overdose of Verapamil include slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat, fainting, difficulty breathing and seizures. It may also cause dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting and increased sweating. Contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical services in a nearby hospital.