Calcium channel blockers

[Tinker2015]

It looks like I will be on blood pressure meds starting next Thursday. GPS like to put you on a calcium c blocker if anyone is taking any can you tell me if they cause a fast heartbeat only saw it the the side effects. I am going to ask for the one with the least side effects as I am sensitive to meds. Any suggestions Ace ones give you a cough so don’t want them

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

First off because an insert mentions a side effect it does not mean you will get it. Yes, ACE inhibitors may cause a cough but only somewhere between 1 in a hundred and 1 in 50 will get it to the extent that alternative medication has to be considered. Likewise CCBs - I developed odema with Amlodapine but this went with Diltiazem.

You need to work with your doctor to tackle your BP. If one medication is unsuitable there will be one that is (suitable). Leaving it untreated could have serious consequences.

Go to see your GP with a "We can sort this attitude"!

[Hidden]

I have been taking an ACE inhibitor and a CCB for 14 years with no side effects whatever, so I completely agree with MichaelJH

Keep an open mind and give it a fair trial

[R1100S1]

We can’t answer that as each one reacts differently to drugs and manufacturers put down every conceivable side effect to avoid litigation just in case.

Personally have been on dilitazem for year with one major side effect - it reduces my blood pressure

Take heart and go with it, any issues take up with the medics.

[Tinker2015 in reply to R1100S1]

Does it give you a fast heartbeat as I already get palpitations from time to time

[R1100S1 in reply to Tinker2015]

It is prescribed (and works) to lower my fast heart rate as part of the treatment of my permanent atrial fibrillation