This is a calcium-channel blocker.

Indications: prophylaxis and treatment of angina, hypertension.

Cautions: reduce dose in hepatic and renal impairment; heart failure or significantly impaired left ventricular function; bradycardia; first degree AV block or prolonged PR interval.

Contra-indications: severe bradycardia, second or third degree A-V block (unless pacemaker is fitted), sick sinus syndrome, pregnancy; porphyria.

Side Effects: bradycardia and first- degree heart block, hypotension, palpitations, ankle oedema, headache, nausea, rarely rashes (toxic erythema reported), gum hyperplasia and extrapyramidal symptoms have been reported.

Dose: initially 60 mg 3 times daily (elderly patients twice daily), max 360 mg daily.