Examples of calcium channel blockers

Calcium channel blockers are available in short-acting and long-acting forms. Short-acting medicines work quickly. But their effects last only a few hours. Long-acting medicines are slowly released. So they last longer. Which one is best for you depends on your health and the condition being treated.

Examples of calcium channel blockers include:

• Amlodipine (Norvasc).
• Diltiazem (Cardizem, Tiazac, others).
• Felodipine.
• Isradipine.
• Nicardipine.
• Nifedipine (Procardia).
• Nisoldipine (Sular).
• Verapamil (Verelan).

Sometimes, a calcium channel blocker may be used with other high blood pressure medicines.