Information About Calblock (Azelnidipine)
Calblock is a brand name for Azelnidipine, a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to the class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers (CCBs). Azelnidipine works by relaxing the blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily, thereby reducing blood pressure. It is a selective L-type calcium channel blocker, and it specifically targets the calcium channels in smooth muscle cells in blood vessels, leading to vasodilation.
Product Highlights
- Calblock is primarily prescribed for the treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure). It helps to lower blood pressure, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
- Azelnidipine may be used to prevent chest pain due to angina by relaxing the coronary arteries and improving blood flow to the heart.
- Though primarily used for hypertension, calcium channel blockers like Azelnidipine are sometimes used to protect the vascular endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels), which can be damaged in chronic high blood pressure.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Azelnidipine is effective in lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, reducing the workload on the heart and preventing complications of hypertension.
- Due to its long half-life, Calblock provides 24-hour control of blood pressure with once-daily dosing, improving patient adherence to treatment.
- Unlike some other calcium channel blockers, Azelnidipine has less likelihood of causing a reflex increase in heart rate (tachycardia), making it a better option for patients who are sensitive to this side effect.
- By improving endothelial function, Azelnidipine may offer additional benefits in vascular health beyond just blood pressure reduction.
- Azelnidipine has a lower tendency to cause peripheral edema (swelling of the legs and ankles), which is a common side effect with many other calcium channel blockers.
Direction of Use
- Azelnidipine is taken by mouth in the form of a tablet.
- The typical starting dose is usually 8 mg once daily, with possible adjustments depending on the individual's response and blood pressure targets.
- It is often recommended to take Calblock once a day at the same time each day, preferably in the morning.
- Azelnidipine can be taken with or without food, but it should be taken consistently in the same manner each day (either always with food or always without food) to maintain consistent absorption.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses to make up for a missed one.
Safety Concerns
- If the dose is too high or if it’s combined with other antihypertensive medications, Azelnidipine can cause a significant drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting.
- Although less common with Azelnidipine compared to other calcium channel blockers, swelling in the feet, ankles, or legs can still occur in some patients.
- Like other calcium channel blockers, Azelnidipine may cause overgrowth of gum tissue in some patients. Good oral hygiene can help reduce this risk.
- Azelnidipine generally has a mild effect on heart rate, but caution is needed if combined with other medications that influence heart rate or rhythm.
- Azelnidipine is metabolized by the liver, so patients with liver impairment should use it cautiously, and liver function should be monitored regularly.
- Azelnidipine may require dose adjustments in patients with kidney impairment, although it is generally considered safer for the kidneys compared to some other antihypertensives.
Avoid Calblock (Azelnidipine) If
- If you have a known allergy to Azelnidipine or other calcium channel blockers, you should avoid taking Calblock.
- If you have very low blood pressure (hypotension), taking Azelnidipine can worsen this condition and cause fainting or dizziness.
- Azelnidipine is metabolized in the liver, and if you have severe liver dysfunction, you should avoid using this medication or use it with caution under a doctor’s supervision.
- Azelnidipine should be avoided in patients with certain heart conditions, including severe heart failure, sick sinus syndrome, or advanced AV block, without a pacemaker.
- Azelnidipine is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary, as its safety in pregnancy has not been well established. It should also be used cautiously during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk.
- Azelnidipine should be used cautiously in combination with other vasodilators, as it could enhance their effects and lead to excessive blood pressure reduction.
