Drugs called calcium channel blockers may be used to lower blood pressure by causing arteries to vasodilate. How do you suppose these drugs work?
A) They prevent calcium from entering the sarcoplasmic reticulum of smooth muscle.
B) They stimulate the calcium pump in smooth muscle, thus removing calcium from the calmodulin.
C) They prevent calcium from exiting the sarcoplasmic reticulum in skeletal muscle.
D) They prevent calcium from entering cardiac muscle, thus slowing down the heart rate.
E) They prevent calcium from entering smooth muscle, thus allowing the muscle to relax.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Calcium channel blockers work by preventing calcium ions from entering the cells of the heart and blood vessel walls, which is crucial for muscle contraction. By blocking calcium entry, these drugs allow smooth muscles in the arteries to relax, leading to vasodilation and a reduction in blood pressure.

Drugs Called Calcium Channel Blockers May Be Used to Lower