Calcium Channel blockers

By Hanif Ahmad
Some examples of CCB (calcium channel
blockers)
• amlodipine
• Nifedipine
• Verapamil
• Diltiazem

- Differ in potency
Other mechanisms
• They also have a negative chronotropic effect by blocking calcium
channels during plateau phase of the action potential of the heart
• Blocks calcium signalling in adrenal cortex cells which decreases
aldosterone production- lowered BP
Administration for amlodipine
• Once daily via mouth
• With or without food
Uses
• HTN
• Angina
• Arrhythmias- supraventricular tachycardia
• Migraine
• Raynaud's phenomenon
• Pulmonary HTN
• Subarachnoid haemorrhage to prevent ischaemia
Side effects
• Ankle oedema
• Constipation
• Tachycardia
• Dizziness
• Rash
• Nausea
• Flushing
Toxicity
• Signs and symptoms: weakness, dizziness, dyspnoea and chest pain.
• Management: ABC, Activated charcoal, IV saline, calcium, glucagon
and insulin.
Contraindications
• Grapejuice with felpodpine, nifedipine, nimodipine and verapamil
should be avoided
• verapamil with beta blockers can cause complete heart block
• Sudden withdrawal of CCB’s may exacerbate angina.