calcium levels

The most common use for calcium channel blockers (CCBs) is for high blood pressure, migraines and Raynaud’s Disease. They work by preventing cellular calcium intake temporarily. While it’s good to have some calcium in the body, too much accumulating in the heart walls and blood vessels can increase blood pressure and restrict blood vessels. Certain medications in this class not only affect calcium absorption, but can also slow/regulate the heart rate and relieve chest pain.

There are two different types of CCBs: Dihydropyridine and Non-Dihydropyridine. The first type (Amlodipine/Norvasc) does not slow down the heart rate, which makes it safer for people who have already suffered heart failure or slowed heart rates; while the latter (Verpamil/Calan/Isotoptin and Diltiazem/Cardizem) will actually slow the heart, making it a suitable treatment for heart arrhythmias (abnormal heart activity.) Both types of medication are intended to reduce blood pressure and reduce the calcium levels in the heart walls and blood vessels.

In clinical studies, African Americans, elderly patients and those trying to reduce their sodium intake all benefited greatly from CCBs, although they’re generally not as effective as beta blockers or ACE inhibitors. Beta blockers, for instance, have been proven to reduce recurring heart attacks and mortality following an initial attack, while CCBs have not. Additionally, ACE inhibitors have demonstrable efficiency at preventing kidney failure, while CCBs do not. Even so, Michael Weber, M.D., of the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine in Brooklyn says “calcium channel blockers ‘convincingly beat the diuretic’ in helping hypertension patients. Also, due to the low side effects, people who have already suffered a heart attack will find these medications a safer alternative.”

One precaution to take while on calcium channel blockers is to avoid smoking. Cigarettes increase one’s heart rate, which can interact with the CCBs to cause a rapid heartbeat or heart attack. Also, patients should not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice less than four hours after taking their medication because it may interfere with the body’s calcium absorption and excretion levels. Lastly, those on blood thinners like Plavix may not see results, as CCBs affect their efficacy. All things considered, CCBs are some of the most widely prescribed medications for heart patients.

Tags: calcium absorption, calcium channel, calcium levels, calcium rich