Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Imaging of Aortic Calcification and Inflammation
Published on: May 31, 2016
Calcium channel blockers and the prevention of atherosclerosis
1Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas.
Abstract:
The presence of calcium in atherosclerotic plaques has long been recognized; however, its role in plaque formation is not yet fully elucidated. Over the past decade, investigators have studied the effects of various calcium channel blockers on atherogenesis in animals and have demonstrated that such agents may retard plaque formation. Recent studies in patients with coronary artery disease have demonstrated that the calcium channel blocker nifedipine may impede or prevent the development of atherosclerotic plaques in humans as well.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Antihypertensive Drugs: Action of Calcium Channel Blockers
Antiarrhythmic Drugs: Class IV Agents as Calcium Channel Blockers
Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, inhibits calcium movement across myocardial cell membranes and vascular smooth muscle. This results in the dilation of coronary and...
Antianginal Drugs: Calcium Channel Blockers and Ranolazine
CCBs, a diverse class that includes dihydropyridines (nifedipine) and diphenylalkylamines (verapamil and diltiazem), exert their effect by blocking calcium channels in cardiac and smooth muscle cells. This...
Antiepileptic Drugs: Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers exert their antiepileptic effects by targeting T-type calcium channels, which are integral to transmitting nerve signals in the central nervous system. These channels allow the passage of calcium ions, which are vital for neuronal communication. By inhibiting T-type calcium channels, calcium channel blockers effectively reduce the release of neurotransmitters and...
Coronary Artery Disease IV: Preventive Measures
Atherosclerosis III: Management

