Calcium-channel blockers reduce the blood pressure by dilating the blood vessels. Calcium channel blockers also slow the heart rate, and reduce the work done by the heart.

Calcium channel blockers for hypertension:

• Amlodipine (Norvasc)
• Diltiazem (Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac, Diltia XL)
• Felodipine (Plendil)
• Isradipine (DynaCirc)
• Nicardipine (Cardene)
• Nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat)
• Nimodipine (Nimotop)
• Nisoldipine (Sular)
• Verapamil (Isoptin, Calan, Verelan, Covera-HS)

Some calcium channel blockers are available in combination with other drugs:

• Amlodipine and atorvastatin (Caduet)
• To treat both high cholesterol and hypertension