Calcium Channel Blockers

Question 1

Introduction to the drug

Answer 1

• In order to pump blood, the heart needs oxygen. The harder the heart works, the more oxygen it requires. Angina (heart pain) occurs when the supply of oxygen to the heart is inadequate for the amount of work that the heart must do. By dilating the arteries, calcium channel blockers or CCBs reduce the pressure in the arteries. This makes it easier for the heart to pump blood, and, as a result, the heart needs less oxygen. By reducing the heart’s need for oxygen, calcium channel blockers relieve or prevent angina. Calcium channel blockerss also are used for treating high blood pressure because of their blood pressure-lowering effects. Calcium channel blockers decrease the excitability of heart muscle and are therefore used for treating certain types of abnormally rapid heart rhythms.

Question 2

Generally Known as

Answer 2

• IPINES
• amlodipine
• atorvastatin
• benazepril

Question 3

Why would you prescribe this drug

Answer 3

• High blood pressure
• Angina
• Abnormal heart rhythms (for example, atrial fibrillation, and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia)

Question 4

Side Effects

Answer 4

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Headache
• Rash
• Edema (swelling of the legs and feet with fluid)
• Low blood pressure
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness

Question 5

Pharmacodynamics

Answer 5

• CCB reduce the amount of calcium entering the cells of the heart and blood vessel walls
• CCB block calcium ions channels which reduces heart rate, lowering of BP and treating angina

Question 6

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 6

• Distributed widely
• Metabolised in the liver
• Excreted in the kidneys