Do calcium channel blockers cause gum recession?

This benign oral condition is a common side effect of the majority of CCBs. It is characterized by an increase of the gingival mass and volume, which can range from mild to extremely severe. Among calcium antagonists, nifedipine is the most frequently implicated antagonist in drug-induced gingival overgrowth.

Do calcium channel blockers affect the gums?

CCBs work by dilating (widening) the blood vessels, which makes it easier for the heart to pump blood. But in a small percentage of people, they also cause changes in the gums. Gum tissue may become thick and lumpy, and it may sometimes extend abnormally and start to cover the teeth.

Why does calcium channel blockers cause gingival hyperplasia?

The calcium antagonist induces blockage of the aldosterone synthesis in zona glomerulosa of the adrenal cortex since this pathway is calcium-dependent, cyclic nucleotide-independent. This may produce a feedback stimulation of an increase in pituitary secretion of ACTH which affects zona glomerulosa hyperplasia.

Do calcium channel blockers cause swollen gums?

If you have high blood pressure, your medical doctor may prescribe calcium channel blockers to help control it. However, that can have a side effect of sore, swollen gums that can be disturbing if you don’t expect it. Calcium channel blockers can cause gingival (gum) overgrowth, said Dr.

How do calcium channel blockers affect the mouth?

Besides other general side effects, CCBs can also cause gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth) and mouth dryness. The former condition occurs when the gum tissues grow and extend beyond their normal size over the teeth. Besides pain and discomfort, hyperplasia creates an abnormal appearance which can be embarrassing.

What does Amlodipine do to your gums?

Gingival enlargement is one of the side effects associated with certain drugs. Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, used as antihypertensive drug has been found associated with gingival hyperplasia.

What drugs cause gingival hyperplasia?

Drug-induced gingival overgrowth is a side effect associated principally with 3 types of drugs: anticonvulsant (phenytoin), immunosuppressant (cyclosporine A), and various calcium channel blockers (nifedipine, verapamil, diltiazem).

What are calcium channel blockers prescribed for?

Calcium channel blockers are medications used to lower blood pressure. They work by preventing calcium from entering the cells of the heart and arteries. Calcium causes the heart and arteries to squeeze (contract) more strongly. By blocking calcium, calcium channel blockers allow blood vessels to relax and open.

Do Calcium channel blockers cause dry mouth?

Calcium antagonists cause dry mouth by inhibiting resting saliva secretion.

Can amlodipine cause gum problems?

Can blood pressure meds cause swollen gums?

Medications that can cause gum swelling and overgrowth include: Phenytoin, a seizure medication. Cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant drug often used to prevent transplant rejection. Blood pressure medications called calcium channel blockers, which include nifedipine, verapamil, diltiazem, and amlodipine.

What causes gum hyperplasia?

Gingival hyperplasia can occur as a direct result of inflammation. The inflammation is often caused by plaque buildup on the teeth from food, bacteria, and poor hygiene practices. The inflammation can make the gums tender and red, and it can trigger bleeding.

What are calcium channel blockers used to treat?

Calcium channel blockers are a common class of medication used to treat high blood pressure and heart arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats.) Calcium causes the forceful contraction of muscles in the heart and it also causes constriction of the muscles in the walls of the artery.

Why do calcium channel blockers have the suffix -pine?

This is because they work well to reduce arterial blood pressure and vascular resistance. This class of drug usually ends with the suffix “-pine.” Other calcium channel blockers, including diltiazem and verapamil, are used to treat rapid heart rates and angina.

What are the benefits of calcium channel blockers for angina?

Calcium channel blockers. Some calcium channel blockers have the added benefit of slowing your heart rate, which can further reduce blood pressure, relieve chest pain (angina) and control an irregular heartbeat.

Can you smoke when taking calcium channel blockers?

You should not smoke when taking a calcium channel blocker, as this could result in a potentially dangerous rapid heartbeat. There are a number of side effects that can occur with calcium channel blockers, but they do not occur in all patients and the benefits of therapy are greater than the risk of side effects.