Tag: Dihydropyridine

With the calcium channel blocker market valued at over $16.92 billion in 2025, millions rely on these drugs [1.9.3]. So, what is a very common adverse effect of all calcium channel blockers? The answer is linked directly to their primary mechanism of action: vasodilation [1.2.4].

With over 68 million prescriptions filled in the United States in 2023, amlodipine is one of the most commonly prescribed medications. The answer to the question, "Is amlodipine a calcium channel blocker?", is a definitive yes, making it a key player in treating cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure and angina.

Globally, elevated systolic blood pressure is the leading risk factor for death, accounting for 10.2 million deaths [1.3.7]. When lifestyle changes aren't enough, doctors often ask, 'Which is the safest calcium channel blocker to prescribe for conditions like hypertension?'

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are a widely prescribed class of medications for conditions like high blood pressure and angina [1.3.2]. A common question patients have is, 'Do all calcium channel blockers cause the same side effects?' The answer is no; side effects vary significantly between the different types.

Approximately 10.7% of patients on calcium channel blockers (CCBs) experience peripheral edema, with the incidence and withdrawal rate increasing with the duration of therapy. This swelling, especially in the ankles and legs, is considered a significant side effect of calcium channel blockers, particularly the dihydropyridine class.

Peripheral edema, or swelling, is a very common side effect of calcium channel blockers (CCBs), with an overall incidence rate of about 10.7% in patients taking these medications [1.6.2, 1.6.3]. So, what is the most common adverse effect of calcium channel blockers, and why does it occur?

One study on hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnea found that those using calcium channel blockers (CCBs) experienced a significant reduction in total sleep time by an average of 41 minutes [1.2.1, 1.3.1]. If you take these common medications, you may wonder: **do calcium channel blockers cause sleep problems?**

Peripheral edema, or leg swelling, is a dose-dependent adverse effect of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers that can affect up to 70% of patients on high doses. For individuals struggling with this side effect, a key question arises: **does lercanidipine cause less leg swelling than amlodipine**? Clinical evidence from comparative studies confirms that lercanidipine is associated with a significantly lower incidence of peripheral edema.

Patented in 1982 and approved for medical use in 1990, manidipine is a third-generation dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker primarily used to treat hypertension. This medication is known for its ability to lower blood pressure effectively while offering distinct advantages, including a favorable side-effect profile and unique effects on renal function, making it a nuanced option within its drug class.