Beta blocker drugs are swallowed whole, and act by slowing down the
heart rate. They reduce the heart’s work so that it needs less oxygen. When
they are taken regularly, they can reduce the frequency of angina attacks.
Beta blockers can, sometimes, cause cold hands and feet, and tiredness.
They are usually not suitable if you have asthma or bronchitis.
Calcium blocking drugs
Like beta blockers, they reduce the frequency of angina attack.
Calcium blockers can, sometimes, produce side-effects, such as
flushing, headaches, constipation and puffiness of the ankles.
Using combinations of drug
Nitrates and beta blockers are often used together, from the start of
treatment. If these do not control the pain then a calcium blocking drug can
be used as well. If you have asthma or bronchitis then calcium blocking drugs may be
used instead of beta blockers, right from the start. Also, if your doctor thinks
might begin with a combination of nitrates and calcium blocking drugs.
that coronary artery spasm is part of the cause of your angina then your treatment might begin with a combination of nitrate and calcium blocking drugs.