Which of the following medications is classified as a calcium channel blocker?

Amlodipine is classified as a calcium channel blocker, which is a type of medication that inhibits the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cells. This action leads to several cardiovascular effects, including the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle, resulting in vasodilation. As a consequence, it effectively lowers blood pressure, reduces cardiac workload, and is commonly prescribed for conditions such as hypertension and certain types of angina.

The classification of amlodipine is important in the context of understanding the mechanism of action of different medications used in cardiovascular disease management. Calcium channel blockers like amlodipine are distinct from other classes of medications, such as beta blockers, anticonvulsants, or diuretics, which serve different purposes and have different mechanisms of action. Understanding these differences helps in the appropriate selection and management of therapeutic strategies in various clinical settings.