Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) work by blocking the movement of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cells. There are three main classes of CCBs: phenylalkylamines like verapamil, benzothiazepines like diltiazem, and dihydropyridines like nifedipine. CCBs cause vasodilation of arteries and relax vascular smooth muscle by inhibiting L-type calcium channels, reducing blood pressure and cardiac workload. Different CCBs have varying effects on heart rate, contractility and conduction. CCBs are used to treat hypertension, angina, arrhythmias and other cardiovascular conditions.