Effects of verapamil, an antagonist of L-type calcium channels, on cardiovascular symptoms in alcohol withdrawal.

Aims: We studied whether verapamil, a Ca2+ channel blocker, affects cardiovascular symptoms in alcohol withdrawal.

Methods: Cardiovascular effects of verapamil (5 mg intravenously) were compared in 20 alcohol-dependent subjects during alcohol withdrawal (n = 10) on days 1, 2 and 10 and during early recovery (n = 10; duration 45 +/- 4.1 days).

L-type Ca2+ channels mediate cardiovascular symptoms of alcohol withdrawal in humans.

The cardiovascular effects and plasma concentrations after intravenous verapamil injection (5 mg) were compared in seven alcohol dependents during alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) to those after resolution of these symptoms. At the onset of AWS, verapamil caused a bradycardiac response, which was absent after resolution of AWS. At the same period, a hypotensive effect of verapamil was weakened.