[Calcium antagonists: current and future applications based on new evidence. Calcium channel blockers and single-pill combination]

Abstract

Ca channel blocker (CCB) is widely used as an anti-hypertensive and anti-ischemic heart disease drug in Japan. CCB or angiotensin receptor antagonist (ARB) is selected as a first line anti-hypertensive drug. However, mono-therapy is often insufficient and combination therapy is needed to achieve the adequate blood pressure control. Hypertensive patients are also sometimes combined with dyslipidemia. In these reasons, a single pill combination of CCB and ARB or statin play an important role in hypertensive and anti-atherosclerotic therapy.