There is no such thing as a medication that doesn’t come with potential side effects. When prescribing medications, healthcare providers weigh the risk of those side effects against the benefits, as well as the risks of not taking that medication or using other interventions. This is the same process when prescribing Calcium channel blockers (CCBs). CCBs are common medications used to treat high blood pressure and other heart-related conditions. While they are effective for managing these conditions, they also come with potential side effects that you should be aware of. Knowing these side effects will allow you to have better, more informed discussions with your doctor so you can arrive at a treatment plan that is best for you.
The Potential Side Effects of Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium is crucial for the electrical activity and pumping function of the heart. During each heartbeat, calcium particles enter the heart muscle cells and aid in the sending of signals to make the heart function properly. Calcium also works inside the cardiac cells to assist in the heart’s contraction. Finally, calcium helps regulate blood clotting, heart rhythms, and the dilation and contraction of blood vessels. These are all vital functions for maintaining heart health.
Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are a class of medications commonly used to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders. They work by blocking the entry of calcium into the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels to relax, leading to lower blood pressure and improved blood flow to the heart. Essentially, CCBs help to manage a variety of cardiovascular conditions by reducing the workload on the heart and improving blood supply to the heart muscle. Additionally, CCBs can also have an antiarrhythmic effect, making them valuable for treating certain abnormal heart rhythms. While these medications are important and improve the health of many people, they are not without their side effects. In some cases, these side effects can be just as dangerous as the conditions that they are meant to protect against. These are 9 of the potential side effects of taking CCBs.
1. Constipation
The relaxation effects of these medications unfortunately aren’t as specific as you might hope. Constipation is a common side effect of calcium channel blockers. It is believed to be caused by the relaxing effect these medications have not only on blood vessels but also on stomach muscles. Verapamil and diltiazem are two CCBs known to have a higher risk of causing constipation. If you are concerned about constipation while taking these medications, speak to your doctor about it. They can either change which one you are on or provide you with solutions to overcome this unfortunate but uncomfortable side effect.
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2. Fluid Buildup (Edema)
Swelling in the arms or legs due to fluid buildup, known as edema, is another common side effect of calcium channel blockers. Factors such as gender, age, and dosage can influence the likelihood of experiencing edema while on CCB treatment. Edema can not only be uncomfortable, but it can also be dangerous. Do not ignore this symptom, either, as edema can be caused by other underlying conditions that can be very dangerous if left untreated. If you are on CCBs and experience edema, speak with your doctor right away.
3. Slow Heart Rate (Bradycardia)
People with high blood pressure often have a high heart rate. Lowering that heart rate is a natural effect of these medications and generally what you are looking for from it. Some calcium channel blockers, particularly non-DHP CCBs like diltiazem and verapamil, can lead to a slow heart rate (bradycardia). While a slightly lower heart rate is a desired effect of these medications, excessively low heart rate may cause symptoms such as dizziness or shortness of breath. This is another side effect that can be quite dangerous, so speak with your doctor if you are experiencing it. They can put you on a different CCB that will hopefully not produce the same effect.
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4. Dizziness
This is a continuation of the previously mentioned side effect, as dizziness and slow heart rate often go together, though this is not necessarily always the case. Dizziness is a common side effect that may occur when starting calcium channel blockers or if blood pressure drops too much. Moving slowly between positions can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing dizziness while on CCB treatment. Speak with your doctor about how to manage this side effect in your daily life.
5. Fatigue
Fatigue is another common side effect associated with calcium channel blockers. While it is common, it doesn’t mean it is something that should be ignored. Excessive fatigue can have a negative impact on your quality of life and your capacity to function normally in your day-to-day life. It can also be a symptom of other, more serious underlying conditions. Be open and direct with your doctor about your fatigue levels so they can help determine why and, if it is your CCB, they can find one that doesn’t make you feel this way.
6. Flushing
Flushing, characterized by red and warm skin, is more common in individuals taking DHP CCBs like amlodipine. This side effect is usually dose-related and is more frequently reported by women. While it may not necessarily be serious, it is not necessarily desired. Don’t let your healthcare provider wave your concerns about this one away as simply cosmetic. It is your health and if you are unhappy with the effects of a medication, your doctor should work with you to find one that you are happy with.
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7. Worsening Heart Problems
CCBs are supposed to treat heart problems and prevent heart failure. A recent study led by Penn State, however, suggests that L-type calcium channel blockers (LCCBs), may actually have detrimental effects on the heart in addition to their intended benefits. The researchers have found that LCCBs can lead to distinct changes in blood vessels. These changes can cause vascular remodeling that reduces blood flow while increasing blood pressure. This actually puts patients at higher risk of heart failure, particularly hypertensive patients, with the most vulnerable being elderly hypertension patients. The research sheds light on the potential risks associated with these widely prescribed medications, urging healthcare providers to consider alternative treatment options for at-risk patients to prevent these, potentially fatal, risks on their heart health.
8. Headache
Headaches are a potential side effect of calcium channel blockers that can occur when first starting the medication. For people who already suffer from headache and, in particular, migraines, this could be highly problematic. On top of that, headaches can be a sign of other, serious health conditions altogether. Monitoring headache frequency and severity is important to ensure they do not worsen over time.
9. Nausea
Nausea is reported as a side effect of calcium channel blockers, although it is less common compared to other side effects. Regardless, nausea is not fun and can negatively affect your quality of life. It is also considered to be a non-specific symptom, so it could be signaling a different health problem entirely. If persistent or severe, nausea should be discussed with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
The Bottom Line
All medications come with side effects; this includes calcium channel blockers. Understanding these potential side effects of CCBs and discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider can help ensure safe and effective treatment. Monitoring and managing side effects can also contribute to better overall health outcomes for anyone taking CCBs. If you are already taking these medications or your doctor would like to prescribe them for you, make sure that you have a thorough conversation with them about the potential side effects and your concerns. If you ever feel like your concerns or side effects you are experiencing are being waved off, go seek out another opinion.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
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