Category

• Antihypertensive

Description

Trandolapril (tran-DOHL-a-pril) and verapamil (ver-AP-a-mil) combination belongs to the class of medicines called high blood pressure medicines (antihypertensives). It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled.

The exact way in which this medicine works is not known. Trandolapril is a type of medicine known as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It blocks an enzyme in the body that is necessary in producing a substance that causes blood vessels to tighten. Verapamil is a type of medicine known as a calcium channel blocker. Calcium channel blocking agents affect the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. The actions of both medicines relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and increase the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form:

Oral
• Extended-release tablets (U.S.)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S.—

• Tarka

† Not commercially available in Canada.