Calcium channel blockers belong to a class of medications that are used to treat a variety of illnesses and conditions. These drugs, also known as calcium antagonists, prevent calcium from infiltrating the cells of the heart and blood vessel walls, according to MayoClinic.com. Their impact on muscle cells in arterial walls allows blood vessels to relax and dilate, easing stress on the circulatory system and relieving conditions in which elevated blood pressure is a factor.
Hypertension and Heart Disease
The ability of calcium channel blockers to relax and dilate blood vessels makes them a valuable tool in the treatment of high blood pressure, according to Lawrence D. Chilnick, author of "Heart Disease: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed." Because these drugs also block the uptake of calcium by the heart muscle, thus slowing its contractions and making them less intense, CCBs often are prescribed for the treatment of coronary heart disease as well, according to Chilnick, a former editorial director for the Cleveland Clinic Press. CCBs commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart disease include amlodipine, diltiazem, felodipine, isradipine, nicardipine, nifedipine, nisoldipine and verapamil.
Angina and Arrhythmias
Calcium channel blockers often are effective in preventing angina pectoris, which is a chest pain that occurs when the heart muscle fails to get enough oxygen-rich blood. CCBs' ability to dilate blood vessels and improve circulation helps to ensure that blood flow to the heart is unimpeded. Registered pharmacist W. Renée Acosta, author of "LWW's Foundations in Pharmacology for Pharmacy Technicians," points out that although CCBs can prevent angina, they are of little value in relieving the pain of short-term angina attacks. Acosta also reports that the same CCBs used to prevent angina often are prescribed for the treatment of arrhythmias, which are irregular heart rhythm patterns.
Migraine Headaches
Joan Raymond, author of "Migraine," reports that calcium channel blockers often are effective in relieving the pain and aura symptoms of migraine headaches. However, she points out, the drugs must be taken for quite some time before their benefits are seen. The CCB most widely prescribed for the treatment of migraines is verapamil, according to Raymond. Possible side effects from CCBs include constipation and hypotension.
Raynaud's Disease
Raynaud's disease is a rare circulatory disorder in which blood flow to the fingers and toes may be temporarily impeded, causing tingling and discoloration. Seen most often in women, the disorder appears to be caused by spasm of the small arteries, known as arterioles, which is triggered by exposure to cold temperatures. Isadore Rosenfeld, M.D., author of "Doctor, What Should I Eat?" reports that calcium channel blockers, most notably diltiazem and nifedipine, often are effective in preventing the arterial spasms that are the root cause of Raynaud's.
References
- MayoClinic.com: High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Calcium Channel Blockers
- "Heart Disease: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed"; Lawrence D. Chilnick; 2008
- "LWW's Foundations in Pharmacology for Pharmacy Technicians"; W. Renée Acosta; 2009
- "Migraine"; Joan Raymond; 2003
- "Doctor, What Should I Eat?"; Isadore Rosenfeld; 2000
