Which calcium channel blockers are suitable for managing cardiac dysrhythmias?

The choice of diltiazem and verapamil as suitable calcium channel blockers for managing cardiac dysrhythmias is based on their specific mechanisms of action and effects on the heart's conduction system. Both diltiazem and verapamil are classified as non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, which means they primarily affect the heart and vascular smooth muscle.

These medications work by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions through L-type calcium channels, leading to decreased contractility and heart rate. In particular, they slow conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node, which is crucial for managing various types of supraventricular dysrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. Additionally, their effect on reducing heart rate makes them effective in the treatment of conditions like rapid ventricular response during these dysrhythmias.

In contrast, the other options consist of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine, nifedipine, and felodipine, which primarily act on peripheral blood vessels to lower blood pressure and do not have significant effects on heart rate or conduction. This makes them less effective for dysrhythmias compared to diltiazem and verap