How to Stop Taking CCBs

Calcium channel blockers describes a category of drugs used to treat a variety of heart-related ailments; including angina, high blood pressure, arrhythmias, coronary artery disease and cardiomyopathy. In addition, doctors may prescribe calcium channel blockers to treat migraines, complications from aneurysms -- and Raynaud's disease. Do not stop taking CCBs without first visiting your physician. Depending on the severity of your condition, suddenly stopping calcium channel blockers without a replacement medication, will cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure -- possibly leading to a heart attack.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your physician before stopping a calcium channel blocker. Some calcium channel blockers rescue medications intended for use during attack. Other types are long term maintenance drugs, taken one or more times during the day. You physician will want to reevaluate your condition and discuss alternatives.

• 2

  Discuss any side effects of your current calcium channel blocker with your doctor. Side effects of calcium channel blockers include dizziness, increased appetite, swelling of the feet, ankles and legs, fainting and heartburn. These side effects are normal and should subside over time. However, if these symptoms impair your daily life, the doctor may adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication.

• 3

  Fill any new prescriptions immediately, particularly if the doctor prescribed a rescue drug. Unless advised otherwise by your physician, substitute the new medication at your next dosing period. Take all new medications as prescribed.

• 4

  Monitor your heart rate and blood pressure, as instructed by your physician. Until you know how stopping calcium channel blockers and starting a new medication will affect you, reduce your stress level and modify your exercise regimen for at least two weeks, allowing time for your body to adjust.