Verapamil is contraindicated in which conditions?

Verapamil is contraindicated in which conditions?

• A. Hypertension with no complications
• B. Asthma
• C. Hypothyroidism
• D. Cardiogenic shock

Answer: (D)

Verapamil is a nondihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that slows heart rate and reduces the force of contraction, mainly by decreasing calcium influx in cardiac muscle and slowing AV nodal conduction. In cardiogenic shock, the heart already has critically reduced pumping ability; further lowering contractility and heart rate can drop cardiac output and blood pressure even more, making perfusion worse. That’s why it is contraindicated in this state. The other conditions listed do not inherently prevent verapamil use—uncomplicated hypertension can be treated with it, and neither asthma nor hypothyroidism is a contraindication to taking verapamil. The key issue is the heart’s pumping capability and conduction status, not these conditions.