Definition

Noun: - A type of medication: "calcium blocker" refers to any drug belonging to a class that inhibits the movement of calcium ions into cells. This action can affect nerve signal transmission or the contraction of smooth muscle, particularly in the heart. These drugs have therapeutic applications in managing several cardiovascular and neurological conditions.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor prescribed a calcium blocker to help control my high blood pressure.
  • Some patients with angina find relief using a calcium blocker.
  • This particular calcium blocker is also effective for preventing certain types of migraines.

Advanced Usage

• Therapeutic use: Calcium blockers are primarily used to treat conditions like hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and to prevent migraine headaches.
  • Calcium blockers work by relaxing blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.

Variants and Related Words

• Calcium channel blocker (CCB): This is the more precise and commonly used full term for this class of drugs. It is often used interchangeably with "calcium blocker."
  • The pharmacist explained the difference between a beta-blocker and a calcium channel blocker.

Synonyms

• Calcium channel antagonist: A technical synonym used in medical literature.
• Calcium antagonist: Another term, though less specific, for the same class of drugs.

Related Phrases

• To be on a calcium blocker: A common phrase describing a patient's medication regimen.
  • She has been on a calcium blocker for her arrhythmia for several years.

Noun

1. any of a class of drugs that block the flow of the electrolyte calcium (either in nerve cell conduction or smooth muscle contraction of the heart); has been used in the treatment of angina or arrhythmia or hypertension or migraine