A healthcare provider may prescribe calcium channel blockers to treat high blood pressure, chest pain, or certain types of irregular heart rhythms. The prescription medications work by slowing down the rate at which calcium enters the heart and blood vessels. As a result, the blood vessels relax, improving blood flow and making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Calcium channel blockers are taken by mouth, typically one to four times each day.

 

As with any medication, there are possible side effects with calcium channel blockers. A few of the more common side effects seen with these drugs include swelling, fatigue, and headaches. Some of the factors that can affect the dose of calcium channel blockers that your healthcare provider prescribes include the medical condition being treated, the specific type of calcium channel blocker being used, other medical conditions you may have, and other medications you may currently be taking.