Clinical roles of calcium channel blockers in ischemic heart diseases

Hypertens Res. 2017 May;40(5):423-428. doi: 10.1038/hr.2016.183. Epub 2017 Jan 26.

Abstract

Calcium (Ca) channel blockers (CCBs) inhibit Ca2+ channels in the myocardium or vascular smooth muscle cells, inhibit myocardium contraction, inhibit the impulse conduction system (anti-arrhythmias) and cause vasodilation. New classifications based on subtypes of Ca channels and α1 subunits have been proposed. Moreover, CCBs have pleiotropic effects on coronary spastic angina (CSA), including variant angina, myocardial infarction (MI) and stent thrombosis (ST). Although the roles of CCBs in clinical situations remain unknown, further studies in this field are expected to broaden our understanding. In this article, we explain the clinical roles of CCBs in ischemic heart diseases, such as CSA, MI and ST, based on previous knowledge and as demonstrated in representative clinical trials.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angina Pectoris / prevention & control
  • Calcium Channel Blockers / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Infarction / prevention & control
  • Myocardial Ischemia / complications
  • Myocardial Ischemia / drug therapy*
  • Myocardial Ischemia / prevention & control
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Stents / adverse effects
  • Thrombosis / prevention & control

Substances

  • Calcium Channel Blockers