Why is verapamil contraindicated in VT?

The use of intravenous diltiazem or verapamil is contraindicated in patients with ventricular tachycardia. IV administration of a calcium channel blocker can precipitate cardiac arrest in such patients.

Does verapamil help with tachycardia?

Verapamil remains the most widely used calcium antagonist for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. It is the most potent and effective drug for the acute treatment of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia particularly, circus movement tachycardia with or without pre-excitation. 2.

How does verapamil affect heart rate?

Verapamil is in a class of medications called calcium-channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. It also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart and slows electrical activity in the heart to control the heart rate.

Does verapamil cause reflex tachycardia?

Pharmacological studies have shown that verapamil has the most negative chronotropic and inotropic effects of the three, with nifedipine producing the most vasodilation and having the potential for causing reflex tachycardia.

Does verapamil cause low heart rate?

When used to treat arrhythmias, such as Atrial Fibrillation, verapamil prolongs the refractory period (the period immediately following electrical stimulation of the AV node) and slows the heart rate.

Can verapamil cause fast heart rate?

fast heartbeat, palpitations, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain. skin rash. slow heartbeat. swelling of the legs or ankles.

Why is it generally advised to give verapamil with a beta blocker *?

Likewise, each verapamil and beta-blocker combination caused greater decreases in heart rate and prolongation of PR interval than did either drug alone. Only the verapamil and propranolol combination produced greater reduction of systolic blood pressure and prolongation of rate-adjusted PR interval.

Why are calcium channel blockers contraindicated in heart failure?

Although it has been suggested that calcium channel blocking agents may be utilized as vasodilators in patients with congestive heart failure, these agents also have the potential to cause a deterioration in cardiac function because of their negative inotropic actions.