How to Take Verapamil
Verapamil is available in generic and brand. Common brands include Verelan PM, VErelan, CAlan SR, and Calan. You can choose to purchase it in several strengths and dosage forms, such as tablets or capsules. A doctor tends to suggest the lowest dose to ensure maximized effects with the least risks. You would take the extended release form without or with food. Avoid chewing, crushing, or splitting the extended release capsules. It is possible to cut the extended release tablets, but you should not chew or crush them. [6]
Recommended Dosages
To prevent migraines, recommended doses of verapamil may vary, ranging between 120 and 480 mg a day. It would take up to a few weeks for the medication to start working. Therefore, make sure to be patient. Some factors determine the dosage you should take, such as age, current medications you are taking, existing health issues, and severity of migraines. To find out the exact dosage, your doctor may need to start with the lowest one and gradually increase every 2 to 4 weeks until the side effects occur. In many cases, it is advisable to gradually reduce the use of verapamil after 1 year of being free of migraine symptoms. Of course, you need to consult your doctor before doing this. [7]
