What is the primary action of calcium channel blockers?

The primary action of calcium channel blockers is to decrease heart rate and blood pressure. These medications work by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into the cardiac and smooth muscle cells. By blocking calcium channels, these drugs lead to relaxation of blood vessels (vasodilation), which lowers blood pressure. In the heart, this reduction in calcium availability decreases the force of contraction of heart muscles, indirectly contributing to a lower heart rate by impacting the electrical conduction within the heart.

Calcium channel blockers are often used to treat conditions such as hypertension and certain types of angina, as their ability to reduce both heart rate and blood pressure can significantly alleviate the workload on the heart. This dual action is crucial in managing cardiovascular conditions effectively.