Definition

Noun: A calcium-channel blocker is any of a class of drugs that inhibit the movement of calcium ions into cells. This action primarily affects the conduction of nerve impulses and the contraction of smooth muscle, especially in the heart and blood vessels. These drugs are used to treat conditions such as angina, cardiac arrhythmia, hypertension, and migraine.

Usage

Calcium-channel blockers are prescribed by doctors to manage cardiovascular and related conditions. They work by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the heart's workload.

Examples

• The doctor prescribed a calcium-channel blocker to help lower the patient's blood pressure.
• Patients with certain types of angina often benefit from taking a calcium-channel blocker.
• Common side effects of a calcium-channel blocker can include dizziness and headache.

Advanced Usage

• Therapeutic Use: The specific calcium-channel blocker chosen depends on the patient's condition; some are more selective for the heart, while others have a greater effect on blood vessels.
• Mechanism of Action: By blocking calcium channels, these drugs prevent calcium from entering cells, which leads to vasodilation and reduced cardiac contractility.

Variants and Related Words

• Calcium antagonist: A synonym for calcium-channel blocker.
• CCB: A common abbreviation for calcium-channel blocker.
• Dihydropyridine CCB: A subclass of calcium-channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, nifedipine) often used for hypertension.
• Non-dihydropyridine CCB: A subclass of calcium-channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem) often used for arrhythmias or angina.

Synonyms

• Calcium antagonist
• Calcium entry blocker

Related Phrases

• Calcium channel inhibition: The process by which a calcium-channel blocker works.
• L-type calcium channel blocker: A more specific term for the most common type of calcium-channel blocker affecting cardiovascular tissues.

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