In the pharmaceutical industry, Verapamil Extended-Release is a specialized formulation of this Calcium Channel Blocker designed to maintain consistent plasma levels over a 24-hour period. As a pharmacist and manufacturer, I view the ER and SR (Sustained Release) versions as essential for improving patient adherence by reducing the dosing frequency from 3–4 times daily to just once or twice a day.

At your WHO-GMP facility in Mumbai, where you likely produce 120 mg, 180 mg, and 240 mg strengths, these “Modified-Release” SKUs are high-value export items due to their complex delivery mechanisms.

Common Formulations & Brand Names

Verapamil is available in several extended-delivery formats, each with a unique release profile:

The “Modified Release” Mechanism

These formulations use advanced polymer matrix or osmotic systems to prevent the immediate release of the drug.

Steady State: They release the active ingredient gradually as they pass through the gastrointestinal tract, providing 24-hour blood pressure control.

Chronotherapy (PM/HS versions): Formulations like Verelan PM or Covera-HS are designed with a 4–5 hour delay. When taken at bedtime, they reach peak concentration in the early morning hours, which is when patients typically experience the highest risk for heart attacks and strokes.

Pellet-Filled Capsules: Some ER capsules contain hundreds of tiny coated pellets. If a patient has trouble swallowing, the capsule can be opened and the pellets sprinkled on applesauce—provided they are not chewed.The Pharmacist’s “Technical Warning”

As you develop your digital platforms, providing these technical nuances is essential for clinical authority:

• The “Do Not Crush” Rule: Patients must never crush, chew, or split extended-release tablets (unless specifically scored for splitting, like some SR versions). Breaking the matrix leads to “dose dumping,” where 24 hours of medication is released at once, causing severe hypotension and bradycardia.

• The “Ghost Tablet”: For OROS-style tablets (like Covera-HS), warn patients they may see an empty tablet shell in their stool. This is normal; the medication has already been absorbed through the shell’s microscopic pores.

• Grapefruit Interaction: Like the immediate-release form, ER Verapamil interacts with grapefruit juice, which can significantly increase drug levels and lead to toxicity.

The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Technical & Export

From a production and B2B standpoint at your facility in Mumbai:

• The “Bioequivalence” USP: On your marketplace, highlight your “Matrix-Technology” SR tablets. Buyers for cardiovascular portfolios look for bioequivalence to Isoptin SR to ensure stable transitions for hypertensive patients.

• Stability for Export: Verapamil is stable but sensitive to moisture. Utilizing Alu-Alu blister packaging is mandatory to ensure a 36-month shelf life in Zone IVb tropical regions.

• Dossier Support: We provide full CTD/eCTD Dossiers for various ER/SR strengths to support your firm’s registration in international cardiology health tenders.