An Explanation for How Calcium Channel Blockers Prevent Angi Posted: 01-23-06 14:50pm
A patient was prescribed a calcium channel
blocker to prevent angina, by decreasing
the demand for oxygen. Could you please
explain why?
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DoctorAnswer
Doctor Answer
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High Blood Pressure, Hypertension, High Cholesterol Answer A Posted: 02-05-06 09:48am
Calcium channel blockers (nifedipine,
verapamil and diltiazem) together with
organic nitrates and beta-blockers are
used for angina pectoris therapy. Calcium
antagonists act on angina pectoris in 3
ways. First, they cause VASODOLATATION of
all periphery arteries which decreases the
peripheral vascular resistance and the
heart’s after-load. They also cause
vasodilatation of the coronary arteries
which provide better blood (and oxygen)
supply to the heart. Second, they DECREASE
HEART RATE and third, they DECREASE HEART
MUSCLE CONTRACTION. These combined effects
decrease the heart’s demand for oxygen.
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