Calcium entry blockers will be increasingly used for the treatment of
hypertension. The currently available
calcium entry blockers are similar in
antihypertensive efficacy but differ in their effects on the atrioventricular node and the degree of peripheral vasodilatory action. The new generation of
dihydropyridine calcium entry blockers exhibits more specific vasodilatory actions with a less negative inotropic effect, which may affect their use in patients with
congestive heart failure. The responsiveness to these drugs is little affected by race or age. Because of their mild natriuretic action, the concomitant use of
dietary sodium restriction or
diuretics may be less necessary. Short-term administration of
calcium entry blockers preserves or improves renal function; however, their long-term effect has not been documented.
Calcium entry blockers have not exhibited protection against
coronary heart disease, but experimental evidence supports the continued search for cardioprotection.
Calcium entry blockers are important drugs for the treatment of
hypertension; the second generation may provide additional benefits because of its more specific
pharmacologic actions.