Calcium channel–blockers are used to treat ]]>hypertension]]> , ]]>angina]]> , ]]>heart arrhythmias]]> , and other heart-related conditions.

Examples of drugs in this family include:

  • Amlodipine (Norvasc)
  • Bepridil hydrochloride (Vascor)
  • Diltiazem (Cardizem, Cardizem CD, Cardizem SR, Dilacor XR, Tiamate, Tiazac)
  • Felodipine (Plendil)
  • Isradipine (DynaCirc, DynaCirc CR)
  • Nicardipine hydrochloride (Cardene, Cardene SR)
  • Nifedipine (Procardia, Procardia XL, Adalat, Adalat CC)
  • Nimodipine (Nimotop)
  • Nisoldipine (Sular)
  • Verapamil (Calan, Calan SR, Covera-HS, Isoptin, Isoptin SR, Verelan)

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Calcium]]> and ]]>Vitamin D]]>

Possible Decreased Action of Drug

Taking calcium and vitamin D supplements might interfere with some of the effects of calcium channel-blockers. ]]>1-7]]>

]]>Ginkgo Biloba]]>

Possible Decreased Action of Drug

According to a study in rats, ginkgo extract may cause the body to metabolize some calcium channel blockers more rapidly, thereby decreasing their effects. ]]>8]]>

]]> Naringen (a Citrus Bioflavonoid]]> )

May Necessitate Reduction in Drug Dosage

Some evidence suggests that the bioflavonoid naringen may interact with medications in the calcium channel blocker family, increasing blood levels of the drug. ]]>9]]> This may necessitate a reduction in drug dosage.