Calcium Channel Blocker
Calcium Channel Blocker is any of a group of drugs used to treat disorders of the cardiovascular system. Examples of disorders include high blood pressure (hypertension), angina pectoris (chest pains caused by reduced oxygen flow to the heart muscle), and irregular heartbeat. These drugs are also effective in treating migraine headaches. Calcium channel blockers interfere with the movement of calcium in cells of the blood vessels and heart. This has the effect of slowing the heart rate and dilating blood vessel walls, thereby reducing blood pressure and easing the heart’s workload. It also increases the supply of oxygen-carrying blood to the heart muscle, providing relief from angina pain. Specific calcium channel blockers include diltiazem, nifedipine, and verapamil. Calcium channel blockers are prescription drugs available as tablets and capsules. They are taken in one or more doses ranging from 5 to 480 mg per day, depending on the particular drug and the condition being treated.