What do calcium channel blockers do

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Calcium channel blockers: What to know. Overview Uses Types and examples Side effects and risks Summary Calcium channel blockers are a type of medication that people take to increase the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart. What is a calcium channel blocker?

Share on Pinterest A doctor may prescribe calcium channel blockers to treat high blood pressure. Share on Pinterest ACE inhibitors can help manage a variety of heart conditions. Types and examples. Side effects and risks.

Share on Pinterest Fatigue is a possible side effect of calcium channel blockers. Certain groups of people may especially benefit from CCBs in combination with other medications, including:.

CCBs reduce blood pressure by limiting the amount of calcium or the rate at which calcium flows into the heart muscle and arterial cell walls. Calcium stimulates the heart to contract more forcefully. This leads to lower blood pressure. CCBs are available in a number of oral formats, ranging from short-acting dissolving tablets to extended-release capsules. The dosage will depend on your overall health and medical history.

Your doctor will also take your age into consideration before prescribing a blood pressure-lowering medication. CCBs are often less likely to cause side effects in people over the age of Because of their action, dihydropyridines are more commonly used to treat hypertension than other classes.

This is due to their ability to reduce arterial pressure and vascular resistance. CCBs may interact with other drugs or supplements you take. Make sure your doctor has an updated list of all of your medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Grapefruit products interfere with the normal excretion of the medication. It could be potentially dangerous if large amounts of the drug accumulate in your body.

Disclaimer The information in this Medicines for Cardiovascular Disease section has been taken from a number of sources. It is meant to give you information about certain medicines, but it does not cover all of the possible uses, warnings, side effects, or interactions with other medicines and vitamin or herbal supplements. This information should not be used as medical advice for individual problems. Visit U. Calcium Channel Blockers Calcium channel blockers are used to control high blood pressure hypertension , chest pain angina , and irregular heartbeats arrhythmia.

Why do I need to take a calcium channel blocker? How do calcium channel blockers work? How much do I take? What if I am taking other medicines? Other medicines used to treat high blood pressure, especially beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors.

Medicines to treat an irregular heartbeat antiarrhythmics. Certain medicines for your eyes. Corticosteroids or any cortisone-like medicines.

Calcium Channel blockers CCBs are sometimes called calcium channel antagonists. Canadian brand names are in brackets. What does it do? This can help: Lower blood pressure Slow your heartbeat Control an irregular heartbeat Reduce chest pain Be Aware: CCBs are often taken with other medications, such as beta-blockers or diuretics.

How do I take it? Are there any interactions? Avoid smoking. CCBs and smoking can cause rapid heartbeat tachycardia. These include: Prescription drugs Non-prescription drugs Inhalers Creams or ointments Over-the-counter or natural health products Alternative therapies Vitamins, minerals, or supplements Herbal remedies Homeopathic medicines Traditional remedies, such as Chinese medicines Are there any side effects?

CCBs have relatively few side effects.