Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are a class of
medications used to treat high blood pressure. They’re also called
calcium antagonists and are as effective as angiotensin converting
enzyme (ACE) inhibitors in reducing blood pressure. CCBs can differ in
the following ways:
- how long they last
- how they’re eliminated from the body
- how they affect heart rate
Who Should Take Calcium Channel Blockers?
People who have high blood pressure, irregular
heartbeats called arrhythmias, or chest pain related to angina may be
prescribed a CCB as treatment. High blood pressure can also be treated
with other forms of medication. You could be asked to take both a CCB
and another hypertensive drug at the same time.
How They Work
CCBs reduce blood pressure by limiting the amount of
calcium or the rate at which calcium flows into the heart muscle and
arterial cell walls. Calcium stimulates the heart to contract more
forcefully. When calcium flow is limited, your heart’s contractions
aren’t as strong and your blood vessels are able to relax, leading to
lower blood pressure.
CCBs are available in a number of oral formats,
ranging from short-acting dissolving tablets to extended-release
capsules. The dosage will depend on your overall health and medical
history. Your doctor will also take your age into consideration before
prescribing a blood pressure-lowering medication. CCBs are most
effective and less likely to cause side effects in people over the age
of 65. The classes of CCB drugs are:
- L-type
- dihydropyridines
- non-dihydropyridines
Dihydropyridines are more commonly used to treat
hypertension than L-type or non-dihydropyridine drugs. This is due to
their ability to reduce arterial pressure and vascular resistance.
Dihydropyridine calcium antagonists usually end in the suffix “-pine”
and include:
- amlodipine
- felodipine
- isradipine
- nicardipine
- nifedipine
- nimodipine
- nitrendipine
Other commonly prescribed CCBs used to treat angina and a rapid heartbeat are verapamil, bepridil, and diltiazem.
ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and beta-blockers also
lower blood pressure. These drugs are generally more effective at
treating hypertension than CCBs. However, African-Americans may benefit
more from CCBs as a first line treatment for high blood pressure.
Side Effects and Risks
CCBs may interact with other drugs or supplements you
take. Make sure that your doctor has an updated list of all of your
medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. CCBs and grapefruit
products, including whole fruit and juice, shouldn’t be taken together.
Grapefruit products interfere with the normal excretion of the
medication. It could be potentially dangerous if large amounts of the
drug accumulate in your body.
Wait at least four hours after you’ve taken your
medication before drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit.
Refrain from smoking when taking CCBs because a rapid heartbeat can
result. Other side effects of CCBs include:
- dizziness
- a headache
- constipation
- heartburn
- nausea
- a skin rash or flushing, which is redness of the face
- edema, or swelling, in the lower extremities
- fatigue
CCBs also lower blood glucose levels in some people,
particularly those whose dosage is higher than 60 milligrams per day.
Tell your doctor about any side effects you’re experiencing. They may
adjust your dosage or recommend that you switch to another medication if
the side effects are prolonged, uncomfortable, or pose a threat to your
health.
Natural Calcium Channel Blockers
Magnesium is an example of a nutrient that acts as a natural CCB, as detailed in a study published in a 1984 issue of the American Heart Journal.
Magnesium is an electrolyte, which is a mineral that holds an
electrical charge in the body and helps regulate fluid levels. Magnesium
is essential for protein and antioxidant synthesis and can be
beneficial to cardiac health and the regulation of blood pressure
levels. Magnesium-rich foods include:
- brown rice
- almonds
- peanuts
- hazelnuts
- oat bran
- shredded wheat cereal
- bananas
- spinach
- okra
- blackstrap molasses
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