Buy Calan
Calan

$0.43
Active Ingredient
Delivery
Airmail (14-21 days) | EMS trackable (5-9 days)
Prescription
Issued on site / Included
Availability
In Stock
Product is shipped in a fully discreet envelope with no content disclosure, including all required documentation inside

Calan Properties

Active Ingredients
Primary Category
Pharmacological Class
Non-dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker
Minor Side Effects
Dosage Forms
Tablets
Administration Route
Oral
Mechanism of Action
Works by blocking the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessel walls. This helps to relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow, and can slow the heart rate.
Prescription Status
Rx
Manufacturer
Pfizer
Patient Summary
Used to lower high blood pressure, prevent chest pain (angina), and treat certain types of abnormal heart rhythms by relaxing blood vessels and controlling heart rate.
Onset Time
Within 1 to 2 hours
Duration
8 to 24 hours depending on formulation
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat
Age Restrictions
Use with caution in children
Pregnancy Use
Consult doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Alternative Drugs

About Calan

Calan (verapamil) is a prescription medication belonging to the class of calcium-channel blockers. In Singapore it is approved for the treatment of elevated blood pressure and for the management of certain cardiac rhythm disturbances, such as supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. The active ingredient, verapamil, works by dampening the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth-muscle cells, which in turn relaxes blood vessels and slows electrical conduction through the heart. While the branded tablet is marketed under the name Calan, generic versions containing the same molecule are widely available and provide a cost-effective alternative for many patients.

What is Calan?

Calan is the commercial name for a tablet formulation that contains the calcium-channel-blocking agent verapamil hydrochloride. The product is manufactured by Abbott Laboratories, a multinational pharmaceutical company with a long history of cardiovascular drug development. In Singapore the drug is regulated by the Health Sciences Authority and can be dispensed only with a valid prescription. Calan is offered in several strengths-40 mg, 80 mg, 120 mg, and 240 mg-allowing clinicians to tailor the dose to an individual’s blood-pressure profile, heart-rate response, and tolerability. Although the brand carries a higher price tag than unbranded verapamil, its formulation has demonstrated bioequivalence to the generic products, ensuring that therapeutic outcomes remain consistent.

How Calan Works

Verapamil blocks L-type calcium channels located on the membranes of cardiac myocytes and vascular smooth-muscle cells. Calcium entry through these channels is essential for two physiological processes: contractile force generation in the heart and vasoconstriction in arterial walls. By inhibiting this influx, verapamil produces a dual effect:

  1. Vasodilation - Reduced calcium-driven contraction of smooth-muscle leads to widened arterial diameter, lowering systemic vascular resistance and consequently decreasing arterial pressure.
  2. Negative Inotropy and Chronotropy - In cardiac tissue, the drug diminishes the strength of contraction (negative inotropy) and slows the speed of impulse propagation through the atrioventricular (AV) node (negative chronotropy). This action is crucial for controlling rapid heart rhythms that originate above the ventricles.

After oral administration, Calan is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract with an absolute bioavailability of roughly 20 % for the immediate-release formulation, due largely to extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 1-2 hours, and the therapeutic effect can last from 4 to 6 hours, depending on the dose and individual metabolism. Verapamil is metabolised primarily by the cytochrome P450 3A4 isoenzyme and excreted both renally and via the bile. Because its elimination half-life ranges from 3 to 7 hours, dosing is usually divided throughout the day to maintain steady plasma levels while minimising peaks that may provoke adverse sensations such as flushing or dizziness.

Why Calan Is Used for Blood-Pressure and Heart-Rhythm Conditions

Indication Rationale
Essential hypertension Elevated systemic resistance is driven, in part, by calcium-mediated smooth-muscle contraction. By relaxing arterial tone, Calan lowers systolic and diastolic pressure, an effect demonstrated in several landmark trials where mean reductions of 10 mmHg (systolic) and 6 mmHg (diastolic) were observed after 8 weeks of therapy.
Angina pectoris (stable) The drug’s ability to decrease myocardial oxygen demand-through reduced heart-rate, contractility, and afterload-helps alleviate chest discomfort during exertion. Clinical practice guidelines recommend verapamil as a second-line agent when β-blockers are contraindicated or insufficient.
Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) SVT is sustained by rapid conduction through the AV node. Verapamil’s AV-node-blocking properties prolong the refractory period, interrupting re-entrant circuits and restoring a normal rhythm. Studies show conversion to sinus rhythm in up to 80 % of patients within minutes of intravenous administration; oral tablets provide maintenance therapy.
Atrial fibrillation/flutter (rate control) In atrial fibrillation, controlling ventricular response is paramount. By slowing AV-node conduction, Calan reduces ventricular rate without markedly affecting atrial contractility, offering a safer alternative to digoxin in patients with compromised left-ventricular function.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (obstructive) The drug diminishes left-ventricular outflow tract gradient by decreasing contractility and improving diastolic filling. Small series have reported symptomatic improvement and decreased gradient measurements after titration to 240 mg daily.

Each of these applications is rooted in the same pharmacologic principle: limiting calcium-driven activity in vessels and cardiac tissue. The evidence base for Calan comes from randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and guideline recommendations issued by the American College of Cardiology, the European Society of Cardiology, and local Singaporean cardiology societies.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Calan

Beyond its labelled uses, verapamil has attracted interest in several off-label scenarios. Small clinical investigations suggest that the drug may attenuate migraine frequency by stabilising vascular tone in cerebral arteries; however, larger trials are needed before routine adoption. In certain cases of cluster headache, low-dose verapamil (often 240 mg daily) has been employed as a prophylactic agent, with modest symptom reduction reported in case series. Psychiatric research has explored calcium-channel blockers as adjuncts in bipolar disorder, noting that verapamil may modulate neuronal excitability, yet the data remain preliminary. Off-label use only under qualified healthcare provider supervision.

Is Calan Right for You?

Calan suits adults who require both blood-pressure control and rhythm-stabilising therapy, particularly when a single agent can address both concerns. Ideal candidates often present with:

  • Mild-to-moderate hypertension that is not adequately managed with a diuretic or ACE inhibitor alone.
  • Recurrent SVT or atrial fibrillation where rate control is a primary objective.
  • Patients intolerant of β-blockers due to asthma, severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or peripheral vascular disease.

Conversely, individuals with certain cardiac conditions-such as severe heart-failure with reduced ejection fraction, advanced atrioventricular block, or a history of pronounced ventricular dysfunction-should avoid calan unless a cardiologist determines the benefits outweigh the risks. Renal impairment and hepatic disease can alter drug clearance, prompting dose adjustments. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are generally advised against using verapamil unless the potential maternal benefit justifies exposure to the fetus. Always discuss personal medical history with a prescriber before initiating therapy.

Taking Calan Effectively

Calan tablets are conventionally taken with a full glass of water. To achieve the most consistent absorption, it is advisable to ingest the medication at the same times each day-often spaced 12 hours apart for twice-daily regimens. Food does not markedly affect the bioavailability of immediate-release verapamil, but a large, high-fat meal may delay peak concentrations by up to 30 minutes; most clinicians counsel patients to avoid taking the drug immediately after a greasy dinner if they experience post-prandial dizziness.

If a dose is missed, the recommendation is to take it as soon as remembered provided that at least 6 hours have not elapsed since the scheduled time; otherwise, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Doubling up to compensate for a forgotten tablet can elevate plasma levels and precipitate hypotension or bradycardia.

Patients should keep a medication diary or set smartphone reminders, especially during the titration phase when doses are frequently adjusted. In cases where a dose increase leads to unwanted flushing or peripheral edema, a slower uptitration-advancing in 40 mg increments rather than jumping directly to 120 mg-may improve tolerability. For travelers, storing tablets in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight preserves potency; Calan remains stable at room temperature for at least two years when kept in its original blister pack.

Understanding Side Effects and How to Manage Them

The most frequent adverse sensations with Calan stem from its vasodilatory and cardiac-depressant actions. Flushing, warmth in the face or upper body, and mild dizziness often occur during the first few days of therapy as the circulatory system adapts to reduced peripheral resistance. To mitigate these feelings, patients can rise slowly from seated or lying positions, stay well-hydrated, and avoid excessive heat exposure.

Constipation and dry mouth result from diminished smooth-muscle activity in the gastrointestinal tract. Increasing dietary fiber, consuming adequate fluids, and, when appropriate, using a mild laxative can alleviate discomfort.

More serious signals-such as a sudden drop in blood pressure (symptoms of faintness, blurred vision) or a heart rate falling below 50 beats per minute-warrant immediate medical attention. If bradycardia is accompanied by chest pain, shortness of breath, or syncope, patients should seek emergency care.

Rarely, verapamil can provoke cardiac conduction abnormalities like heart block, especially in individuals with pre-existing AV-node disease. Routine electrocardiograms after dose escalation help detect early changes; intervention may involve dose reduction or discontinuation.

Skin rash, itching, or hives suggest an allergic response; antihistamines may provide temporary relief, but any sign of a severe reaction (e.g., facial swelling, difficulty breathing) requires urgent evaluation.

Buying Calan from Our Online Pharmacy

Accessing Calan through traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies in Singapore can be challenging due to high out-of-pocket costs and occasional stock shortages. Our online pharmacy offers a streamlined pathway to obtain the medication discreetly and at a price often closer to the manufacturer’s wholesale rate.

Why Choose Our Service?

Through our platform you gain a single point of contact for verified prescription medications, eliminating the need to visit multiple local pharmacies. The process is designed to be quick, secure, and transparent, giving you confidence that the product you receive matches the brand’s quality standards.

Quality & Safety

We partner exclusively with licensed international pharmacies that operate under stringent regulatory oversight, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency. Each shipment of Calan undergoes a verification step that confirms authenticity, proper packaging, and compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice. Our pharmacy service therefore ensures that you receive medication that meets the same safety criteria as locally dispensed products.

Pricing & Access

Because we source directly from reputable wholesalers, the cost of Calan is typically 30 %-45 % lower than the retail price quoted in Singaporean pharmacies. For patients who are cost-sensitive, we also stock generic verapamil tablets that deliver identical therapeutic outcomes at an even more affordable rate. In addition, a 10 % discount is automatically applied to repeat orders placed within a six-month window, helping you manage long-term therapy expenses.

Discreet Delivery

All parcels are packed in neutral, unbranded envelopes and cushioned with bubble wrap to protect the tablets during transit. Standard airmail delivery reaches most Singapore addresses within three weeks, while express shipping-available upon request-can bring the medication to your doorstep in roughly seven days. Your personal information remains confidential throughout the process, with no branding or product details visible on the outer packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does it take for Calan to lower my blood pressure? Most patients notice a modest reduction within one to two weeks of consistent dosing. Full therapeutic effect, particularly when titrating upward, may require four to six weeks as the body adjusts to the altered calcium-channel activity.

  • Can I take Calan with other blood-pressure medicines? Verapamil is frequently combined with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or ARBs to achieve optimal control. However, concurrent use with other calcium-channel blockers or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, ketoconazole) can raise plasma concentrations and increase the risk of hypotension or bradycardia. Discuss any additional medications with your prescriber.

  • Is it safe to consume alcohol while on Calan? Moderate alcohol intake does not usually cause serious interactions, but both alcohol and verapamil can lower blood pressure. Excessive drinking may amplify dizziness or faintness, particularly after dose adjustments. Limiting alcohol to occasional, low-quantity servings is prudent.

  • What should I do if I miss a dose? If you remember within six hours of the scheduled time, take the missed tablet. Beyond that window, skip the dose and resume your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at once, as this can lead to abrupt blood-pressure drops.

  • Can Calan be used during pregnancy? Verapamil crosses the placenta, and while animal studies have not shown teratogenic effects, human data are limited. It is generally reserved for pregnant patients only when the anticipated benefit justifies potential fetal exposure. A specialist obstetrician should evaluate the risk-benefit ratio.

  • Are there any food restrictions with Calan? No strict dietary restrictions exist, but grapefruit juice can inhibit CYP3A4 enzymes and raise verapamil levels, potentially causing exaggerated effects. It is advisable to avoid large amounts of grapefruit or its juice while on therapy.

  • How does verapamil differ from other calcium-channel blockers like amlodipine? Verapamil predominantly influences cardiac conduction and contractility, making it valuable for rhythm control. Amlodipine exerts a stronger effect on peripheral vessels with minimal impact on heart rate. Choice between agents depends on whether a clinician prioritises blood-pressure reduction (amlodipine) or arrhythmia management (verapamil).

  • Will I need regular blood tests while taking Calan? Baseline assessment of liver and kidney function is recommended before initiating therapy. Periodic monitoring may be necessary if dosages exceed 240 mg daily, if you have pre-existing hepatic or renal disease, or if you experience unexplained symptoms suggestive of toxicity.

  • Can I switch from a generic verapamil to Calan, or vice versa? Both formulations contain the same active ingredient and are bioequivalent, so a switch is clinically acceptable. Some patients report minor differences in tolerability due to excipients; discuss any adverse sensations with your pharmacist to determine the best option.

  • Is Calan appropriate for elderly patients? Older adults often have reduced hepatic metabolism and may be more sensitive to the negative-chronotropic effects of verapamil. Starting at a lower dose (e.g., 40 mg) and titrating slowly can minimise dizziness and bradycardia while still providing therapeutic benefit.

  • What should I watch for to know if Calan is working? Improvement in blood-pressure readings (target <130/80 mmHg for most adults), reduced episodes of rapid heartbeats, and decreased reliance on rescue medications for angina are practical indicators. Tracking symptoms in a diary helps your clinician assess efficacy during follow-up visits.

Glossary

L-type calcium channel
A voltage-gated channel predominant in cardiac and vascular smooth-muscle cells that permits calcium influx during depolarisation, driving contraction.
Negative chronotropy
A pharmacologic effect that slows the heart rate, typically by lengthening the refractory period of the atrioventricular node.
First-pass metabolism
The rapid degradation of a drug by the liver after oral ingestion, which reduces the amount of unchanged medication reaching systemic circulation.
Bioequivalence
A regulatory standard indicating that two drug products release the same amount of active ingredient into the bloodstream at comparable rates.
AV-node block
An interruption or delay in electrical conduction through the atrioventricular node, resulting in a slower ventricular response.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Calan is intended for general educational purposes and does not substitute personalized medical advice. Treatment decisions, including the use of calan for off-label indications, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are presumed to be responsible adults capable of making informed health choices. Our online pharmacy provides a convenient avenue for acquiring calan, particularly for individuals facing limited local availability or high costs, yet we encourage consultation with your physician before initiating, adjusting, or discontinuing any medication.

External Resources about Calan


Information Prepared By

Nawin Kittisak
Vikneswaran V Paranjothy