What suffix do the majority of Calcium Channel Blockers have?

The majority of calcium channel blockers typically end with the suffixes “dipine” and “zem.” These suffixes denote drugs that are used to treat conditions such as hypertension and certain types of angina. The “dipine” suffix is commonly associated with dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, which primarily affect vascular smooth muscle and help in decreasing blood pressure. Examples include amlodipine and nifedipine. The “zem” suffix refers to non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, such as diltiazem, which not only reduce vascular resistance but also have effects on the conduction system of the heart. Recognizing these suffixes aids in identifying the drug class and understanding their therapeutic uses and mechanisms of action. Therefore, understanding the naming conventions can assist healthcare providers in recognizing medication types and their respective pharmacological effects.