[Pharmacology of calcium antagonists]

The present increase in indications for application of calcium antagonists--beyond the area of coronary heart disease--is confirmed by pharmacological analyses. Due to calcium antagonists the contractility is decreased, which is followed by a decreased oxygen consumption in the heart and a relaxation of the vessels. Nowadays, the anti-arrhythmic and cardio-protective effects as well as the prevention of coronary spasms by these substances can be pharmacologically established.