Names and Examples of Calcium Channel Blockers :
- Adalat, Procardia (felodipine)
- Calan, Isoptin, Verelan (verapamil)
- Cardizem, Tiazac (diltiazem)
- Lotrel, Norvasc (amlodipine)
- Nimotop (nimodipine)
- Sular (nisoldipine)
- Vascor (bepridil)
How They Work:
Calcium channel blockers affect the amount of calcium in the heart and muscle cells. They lower blood pressure and regulate the strength and rate of the heart. They are also used for angina (chest pain) because their use decreases the oxygen demand of the heart muscles.
Calcium channel blockers affect the amount of calcium in the heart and muscle cells. They lower blood pressure and regulate the strength and rate of the heart. They are also used for angina (chest pain) because their use decreases the oxygen demand of the heart muscles.
Possible Side Effects:
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Edema (swelling of the extremities)
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these:
- Systolic blood pressure (the top number) below 90
- Heart rate ir pulse under 60 beats per minute
- Nausea or vomiting
Points to Remember:
- Check your blood pressure and pulse rate daily and keep a written log.
- Do not suddenly stop taking calcium channel blocker. If you need to stop taking them, work with your doctor to gradually taper your dose down.
- Stand slowly to avoid dizziness.
Possible Drug Interactions:
- Avoid alcohol while taking calcium channel blockers.
- Avoid grapefruit juice while taking calcium channel blockers. Grapefruit juice can cause an increase in the drug level and in side effects.
- Calcium channel blockers can change the effectiveness of many drugs. Be sure all of your doctors and your pharmacist are aware of all the medications that have been prescribed for you.
- If you have a slow release form of medication, always take the capsule whole. Do not break it open.
