What is the mnemonic for common side effects of calcium channel blockers?

What is the mnemonic for common side effects of calcium channel blockers?

• A. F - Flushing
• B. E - Edema
• C. D - Dizziness
• D. C - Constipation

Answer: (D)

The correct mnemonic for the common side effects of calcium channel blockers is "F.E.D.C." which stands for Flushing, Edema, Dizziness, and Constipation. Each letter corresponds to a significant side effect associated with this class of medications. Flushing occurs because calcium channel blockers can cause vasodilation, leading to an increase in blood flow to the skin. Edema is a common result of the peripheral vasodilation and increased capillary permeability caused by these drugs, which can lead to fluid retention especially in the lower extremities. Dizziness can occur due to the lowering of blood pressure as a result of the medication's effects on vascular smooth muscle. Lastly, constipation is a unique side effect tied to the effects of calcium channel blockers on smooth muscle, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, where reduced calcium influx can slow down motility. Recognizing these effects is essential when monitoring patients on calcium channel blockers to manage and mitigate potential discomfort.

The correct mnemonic for the common side effects of calcium channel blockers is "F.E.D.C." which stands for Flushing, Edema, Dizziness, and Constipation. Each letter corresponds to a significant side effect associated with this class of medications.

Flushing occurs because calcium channel blockers can cause vasodilation, leading to an increase in blood flow to the skin. Edema is a common result of the peripheral vasodilation and increased capillary permeability caused by these drugs, which can lead to fluid retention especially in the lower extremities. Dizziness can occur due to the lowering of blood pressure as a result of the medication's effects on vascular smooth muscle. Lastly, constipation is a unique side effect tied to the effects of calcium channel blockers on smooth muscle, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, where reduced calcium influx can slow down motility.

Recognizing these effects is essential when monitoring patients on calcium channel blockers to manage and mitigate potential discomfort.