What type of medication are drugs that typically end with -PINE?

Drugs that typically end with the suffix -PINE are classified as calcium channel blockers. This class of medications works by inhibiting calcium ions from entering cardiac muscle cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. By blocking these channels, calcium channel blockers lead to relaxation of the blood vessels, which ultimately results in decreased blood pressure and reduced cardiac workload.

Calcium channel blockers are commonly used to treat conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats). The most common examples include amlodipine, nifedipine, and felodipine, which all contain the -PINE suffix, indicating their specific action on calcium channels.

Understanding the suffix is essential for identifying the class of the drug and its potential therapeutic effects, making it easier for healthcare professionals to prescribe and manage treatment plans effectively.