What is the mechanism of action of Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs)?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an explanation of how Calcium Channel Blockers function in the body, which involves understanding their pharmacological action and effects on cellular processes.
Answer
They block calcium by binding to L-type channels in the heart and blood vessels, leading to vasodilation.
Calcium channel blockers block the inward movement of calcium by binding to L-type voltage-gated calcium channels, primarily in the heart and vascular smooth muscle, which reduces contraction strength and causes vasodilation.
Answer for screen readers
Calcium channel blockers block the inward movement of calcium by binding to L-type voltage-gated calcium channels, primarily in the heart and vascular smooth muscle, which reduces contraction strength and causes vasodilation.
More Information
Calcium channel blockers are used to treat various conditions, including hypertension and arrhythmias, because they help in reducing heart workload and increasing oxygen supply.
Tips
One common mistake is confusing the types of calcium channels; CCBs specifically block the L-type channels. Also, misunderstanding the effects on different tissues, such as heart muscle vs. vascular smooth muscle, may lead to incorrect clinical implications.
Sources
- Mechanism of Action - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Calcium channel blockers - Mayo Clinic - mayoclinic.org
- Calcium Channel Blockers - Physiopedia - physio-pedia.com
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