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Calcium channel blockers & beta blockers--difference

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  • #1

    Calcium channel blockers & beta blockers--difference

    I know that there are calcium channel blockers and beta blockers..what is the difference between the two ? does one help with pac's better?
    \"It is not length of life, but depth of life.\"

    Ralph Waldo Emerson
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  • #2
    Re: Calcium channel blockers & beta blockers--difference

    at the most basic level, one blocks calcium receptors and the other beta-andrengic receptors in the heart. this just means that they each slow the heart rate and reduce blood pressure via different channels, like am or fm radio.

    other drugs like norpace and cordarone are potassium channel blockers.

    since HCM varies so widely, there is no way to tell which will work best for any given person ---yet. maybe someday we can figure it out before we hand you the pills.

    you can read up on the drugs on line and on heart function if you want all the detailed chemical explanations of how they work.

    take care,

    s

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    • #3
      Re: Calcium channel blockers & beta blockers--difference

      OK, I've been on Verapamil for 6 months. I do very well for the most part --- no SOB and less fatigued when I was on a beta blocker. I still get bouts of AFIB. I take my Verapamil around 9:00-9:30 every morning. There have been some mornings where I forget to take it and remember around 10:30-11:00. My point is, I do not notice any irregular beats or feeling my heart beating a little harder when I HAVEN'T taken it. What I'm trying to say here is, I feel better when I don't take it. How does a doctor know that it might not be for me??? I'm totally confused and wonder if I should go back on a beta blocker
      \"It is not length of life, but depth of life.\"

      Ralph Waldo Emerson

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      • #4
        Re: Calcium channel blockers & beta blockers--difference

        Cynthia, an hour or so late is not really that big a deal when you are taking a med that is supposed to give 24 hour coverage. The times are only ranges, each body is different in how fast it eliminates the med from your system. You need to talk to your doctor and let him know how you feel on each med, what your tolerances are with each, he needs to evaluate you physically, and together, decide which is best. If you don't feel right with a med, call the doc back, don't wait till the next appt. Of course, some meds take a while to kick in properly, your doctor should be telling you how long you should expect that to take. Ask if you aren't given that info. Hope this helps, Linda

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