Calcium channel antagonists.

Preview The success of calcium channel antagonists in controlling hypertension, angina pectoris, and arrhythmias is well known. In recent years, second-generation agents have been introduced that are also effective against migraine headaches and Raynaud's phenomenon and appear to improve atherosclerosis and congestive heart failure. The authors summarize the characteristics that calcium channel antagonists have in common and describe the specific niche filled by the newer agents, particularly those of the dihydropyridine class.