Use of calcium channel blockers in cardiovascular disease

Calcium channel blockers are widely used agents that feature in the management of a number of cardiovascular indications, including hypertension, angina and supraventricular tachycardias. By inhibiting the movement of calcium into the cytoplasm via transmembrane calcium channels, calcium channel blockers reduce vascular and myocardial contractility, and modulate the activity of pacemaker cells. There are important differences between the different types of calcium channel blockers, and a sound understanding of their mechanism of action is required in order to promote their safe and effective use in patients. This article will briefly describe calcium channel pharmacology, the mechanism of action of calcium channel blockers and their place in the therapy of cardiovascular disease.