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Calcium channel blockers (CCB), calcium channel antagonists or calcium antagonists [2] are a group of medications that disrupt the movement of calcium (Ca 2+ ) through calcium channels . [ 3 ] Calcium channel blockers are used as antihypertensive drugs , i.e., as medications to decrease blood pressure in patients with hypertension .
ATC code C08 Calcium channel blockers is a therapeutic subgroup of the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System, a system of alphanumeric codes developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the classification of drugs and other medical products. [1] [2] [3] Subgroup C08 is part of the anatomical group C Cardiovascular system ...
Antihypertensives are classified by different mechanisms or sites of action. Some of the most commonly used drugs to treat hypertension include diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), and beta-blockers.
Compared with certain other L-type calcium channel blockers (for example those of the phenylalkylamine class such as verapamil) that have significant action at the heart, the dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers lower blood pressure mainly by relaxing the smooth muscle of the blood vessel walls. [3]
It is a calcium channel blocker of the dihydropyridine type. [2] Nifedipine is taken by mouth and comes in fast- and slow-release formulations. [2] Common side effects include lightheadedness, headache, feeling tired, leg swelling, cough, and shortness of breath. [2] Serious side effects may include low blood pressure and heart failure. [2]
Isradipine (tradenames DynaCirc, Prescal) is a calcium channel blocker of the dihydropyridine class. It is usually prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure in order to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack. It was patented in 1978 and approved for medical use in 1989. [1]
In cardiac pharmacology, calcium channel blockers are considered class-IV antiarrhythmic agents. Since calcium channels are especially concentrated in the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes , these agents can be used to decrease impulse conduction through the AV node, thus protecting the ventricles from atrial tachyarrhythmias .
Class I agents interfere with the sodium (Na +) channel. Class II agents are anti-sympathetic nervous system agents. Most agents in this class are beta blockers. Class III agents affect potassium (K +) efflux. Class IV agents affect calcium channels and the AV node. Class V agents work by other or unknown mechanisms.