Calcium-channel blockers and anaesthesia.

Verapamil was the first calcium-channel blocker (CCB). It has been used since 1962 in Europe then in Japan for its antiarrhythmic and coronary vasodilator effects. The CCB have become prominent cardiovascular drugs during the last 15 years. Many experimental and clinical studies have defined their mechanism of action, the effects of new drugs in this therapeutic class, and their indications and interactions with other drugs. Due to the large number of patients treated with CCB it is important for the anaesthetist to know the general and specific problems involved during the perioperative period, the interactions with anaesthetics and the practical use of these drugs.