10 Questions
How do calcium channel blockers work to reduce blood pressure?
By blocking the passage of calcium into the muscle cells that control the size of blood vessels, preventing the muscles of the arteries from constricting and allowing blood vessels to dilate, which reduces blood pressure.
What role does calcium play in the stimulation of cardiac cells and the contraction of smooth muscle cells?
Calcium plays a central role in the electrical stimulation of cardiac cells and in the mechanical contraction of smooth muscle cells in the walls of arteries.
What percentage of patients with hypertension are effectively treated with calcium channel blockers as an initial treatment for high blood pressure?
About 30 to 40 percent of patients with hypertension are effectively treated with calcium channel blockers as an initial treatment for high blood pressure.
Why do many doctors still recommend trying other drugs before using calcium channel blockers?
Many doctors still recommend trying other drugs first because calcium channel blockers are more costly than diuretics or beta blockers, even though they are generally well tolerated.
What is the trade name for the calcium channel blocker diltiazem?
The trade name for the calcium channel blocker diltiazem is Cardizem.
What are some possible side effects of nicardipine and nifedipine?
Headache, nausea, tiredness, ankle swelling, dizziness, and rash
What is the generic name for the drug Cardene?
nicardipine
What is the purpose of nimodipine (Nimotop)?
It is used to treat people who have had a burst blood vessel in the head (subarachnoid haemorrhage or ruptured aneurysm).
What condition does nimodipine help to prevent?
Vasospasm, a condition that can lead to a recurrence of stroke.
What are some possible side effects of nimodipine?
Dizziness or light-headedness, headache, nausea, fast heart rate, skin rash, or swelling of the lower extremities
Test your knowledge about calcium channel blockers and their effect on muscle contraction in blood vessels. Learn about the mechanisms of action and the role of calcium in controlling the size of arteries.
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