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Pharmacy- Drug Information  

Drugs That Lower Blood Pressure and Improve Heart Performance
(Calcium Channel Blockers)

The Generic (common) Name of the drug is listed first, followed by a specific Product (brand) Name, which is an example of that generic drug. To learn more about an individual drug, click on its Generic Name or Product Name.

 
Examples:
 
Generic Name Marketer Example Product Name
Nicardipine Roche Pharmaceuticals Cardene
Nifedipine Pfizer Inc. Procardia
Nifedipine Bayer Corporation Adalat
Verapamil Searle, division of Pharmacia Corp. Calan
Verapamil Knoll Laboratories Isoptin
Diltiazem Aventis Pharmaceuticals Cardizem


 
What are a calcium channel blocker drugs?
Calcium channel blocking drugs dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure. They are commonly used for patients with high blood pressure and/or narrowing of the blood vessels that go to the heart (coronary arteries). Some of these drugs slow the heart rate.

 
Why are they given?
The doctor determines that the patient's blood pressure is too high and/or that the blood vessels to the heart should be opened up more. Some of these medications may be given to control a fast heart rate.

 
How long are they used?
Usually this type of medication is taken for the rest of the patient's life.

 
Do they have side effects?
Side effects do occur. Some are minor and others are more serious. The most common side effects include lightheadedness, headache, and constipation.
 


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