Examples
|
| Norvasc | amlodipine |
| Caduet | amlodipine and atorvastatin |
| Lotrel | amlodipine and benazepril |
| Exforge | amlodipine and valsartan |
| Cardizem, Dilacor, Taztia, Tiazac | diltiazem |
| felodipine | |
| isradipine | |
| Cardene | nicardipine |
| Adalat, Procardia | nifedipine |
| Sular | nisoldipine |
| Calan, Isoptin SR | verapamil |
How It Works
Calcium channel blockers relax and widen
blood vessels. This makes it easier for blood to flow through the vessels and
lowers blood pressure.
Diltiazem and verapamil also slow the heart
rate and affect the pumping action of the heart.
Why It Is Used
Calcium channel blockers are used to lower . This medicine can be taken either alone or with other blood pressure medicines such as a diuretic.
How Well It Works
Calcium channel blockers lower blood pressure.
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:
- Trouble breathing.
- Hives.
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common side effects of this medicine include:
- Slow heart rate.
- Swelling in the lower legs or ankles.
- Constipation or diarrhea.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness.
- Flushing or feeling warm.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug
Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Your doctor may ask you to take your pulse regularly to make sure your heart rate is not too slow. To learn how to take your pulse, see the topic .
For tips on taking blood pressure medicine, see:
High Blood Pressure: Taking Medicines Properly.
Taking medicine
Medicine is one of the many tools your doctor has to treat a health problem. Taking medicine as your doctor suggests will improve your health and may prevent future problems. If you don't take your medicines properly, you may be putting your health (and perhaps your life) at risk.