Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers are special medicines that are given to slow the rate at which calcium passes into the heart to relax the vessels through which the blood travels. These relaxed vessels make it easy for the blood to pass and help maintain low blood pressure.
Calcium channel blockers are prescribed for people with heart and blood circulation problems including high blood pressure and angina. They affect the movement of the calcium in the heart cells and blood vessels. As a result, the blood vessels relax and this increases the flow of blood to the heart, thus, resuming its normal functioning.
Function of Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers regulate the flow of blood to the heart. Calcium is essential for proper working of the cells and these calcium channel blockers prevent calcium from entering the cell and bring change in its working.
Calcium reduces the contraction of the heart muscles and lowers the amount of electrical impulses to regulate the heart beat. This helps in widening of blood vessels that facilitate fast flow of blood.
Diseases that Calcium Channel Blockers Treat
Calcium channel blockers treat the following ailments and diseases:
- Angina and chest pain caused by poor flow of blood to heart
- High blood pressure
- Abnormal heart rhythms
- Coronary heart disease
Side Effects of Calcium Channel Blockers
Like numerous other medicines, calcium channel blockers can also lead to side effects. These side effects might occur if the drug does not suit the patient or if it is not taken as recommended by the doctor.
Some of the side effects may include:
- Headaches
- Swelling in ankles
- Feeling of fatigue
- Upset stomach
- Dizziness
- Increased appetite
Cautious Use Of Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers should be used after you have consulted a qualified doctor and s/he has recommend calcium blocker for your condition. It should be taken with care especially if one has:
- Liver problem
- Kidney disorder
- Heart failure
- Severe low blood pressure
- Diabetes
This medicine should be taken with food or milk. The doctor’s advice should be followed on how it should be taken and how much. Blood pressure should be constantly monitored while taking this drug.
Things to Avoid When Taking Calcium Channel Blockers
- Large doses of calcium or vitamin D supplements
- Grapefruit juice as it interferes with absorption of this medicine
- Alcohol as it increases blood pressure
- Drugs for hypertension
Calcium channels blockers are devised to help with the flow of the blood and normal functioning of the heart but it should be taken only after consulting a doctor regarding the effects and benefits of this drug. |
