Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs)

Question 1

Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs)

Answer 1

Prevent hypertension by preventing calcium from entering the cells of heart and arteries by vasodilation. This lowers blood pressure and makes it easier for the heart to push out blood

Question 2

Common medications of CCBs

Answer 2

• Dihyropyridines
• amlodipine

Question 3

What medications end in INE?

Answer 3

CCBs

Question 4

The therapeutic action of CCBs

Answer 4

Smooth muscle vasodilation and relaxation

Question 5

Indications for CCBs

Answer 5

Hypertension

Question 6

What population are CCBs best used for?

Answer 6

African Americans

Question 7

Contraindications of CCBs

Answer 7

• Hepatic impairment (first pass metabolism = more free drug = toxic)
• Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack)
• Coronary artery disease

Question 8

Side effects of CCBs

Answer 8

• Flushing
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Ankle edema
• Bradycardia

Question 9

Adverse effects of CCBs

Answer 9

• Orthostatic hypotension
• Bradycardia
• Chest pain
• Dyspnea

Question 10

Nursing interventions for CCBs

Answer 10

• Monitor for peripheral vasodilation -> keep the feet above heart level to bring the blood back to the heart & reduce edema
• Assess BP & HR prior to administering
• Obtain baseline weight

Question 11

Patient education for CCBs

Answer 11

• Inform patient about the effects of peripheral vasodilation
• Educate patient on ways to decrease effects of dizziness (Stay hydrated, rise slowly)
• Refrain from grapefruit juice (Increases levels of medication in the blood -> can become toxic)