What are the recommendations for calcium channel blockers in patients with NSTE-ACS?
Calcium channel blockers are recommended in patients with NSTE-ACS to reduce myocardial ischemia. Specifically, short-acting calcium channel blockers (e.g., nifedipine) are recommended for treatment of angina and long-acting calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine) are recommended for prevention of angina. In addition, calcium channel blockers have been shown to reduce the risk of reinfarction, stroke, and mortality in these patients. However, calcium channel blockers should be used with caution in patients with hypotension or bradycardia. Beta blockers and nitrates should also be used in combination with calcium channel blockers for optimal benefit.