Calcium channel blockers

Question 1

Mechanism of Calcium channel blockers

Answer 1

• Block slow Ca channels of vascular smooth muscles and cardiac muscles.
• Used for treatment of hypertension , angina.

Question 2

Clinical picture of Calcium channel blockers

Answer 2

• Bradycardia,
• HB
• Hypotension
• cardiogenic shock.
• Hyperglycemia.(block of insulin release)

Question 3

Treatment of Calcium channel blockers

Answer 3

I- Emergency measures: ABCD
II- GI decontamination
-GL may be beneficial if the patient presents to the ED within 1-2 h of ingestion. Pre-treat with atropine to avoid severe bradycardia.
-AC should be administered routinely after lavage.
-WBI, MDAC in case of SR preparations

Question 4

Antidote for Calcium channel blockers

Answer 4

(CALCIUM CHLORIDE).

for treatment of hypotension and myocardial depression

Question 5

Beta-blockers vs. calcium channel blockers

Answer 5

• There is myocardial depression and hypotension that is more frequent than in B-blockers. Cardiogenic shock, seizures and coma are end stage of acute poisoning.
• Unlike B-blockers, hyperglycemia may occur in Ca channel blockers toxicity.
• Treatment is as in B-blockers. In addition, Ca chloride 10% 10-20 ml very slowly IV should be given for treatment of hypotension and myocardial depression