Which medication listed is a calcium channel blocker used for hypertension?

Which medication listed is a calcium channel blocker used for hypertension?

• A. Amlodipine
• B. Levothyroxine
• C. Atorvastatin
• D. Fexofenadine

Answer: (A)

The key idea is recognizing a calcium channel blocker and its use for lowering blood pressure. Amlodipine belongs to the dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers that inhibit L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle. By blocking calcium entry, the vessels relax and dilate, which reduces systemic vascular resistance and lowers blood pressure. Amlodipine is commonly prescribed for hypertension (often as a once-daily agent) and can be used for angina as well. The other medications don’t fit this mechanism or indication: levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement, not a BP-lowering agent; atorvastatin lowers cholesterol; fexofenadine is an antihistamine for allergies.

The key idea is recognizing a calcium channel blocker and its use for lowering blood pressure. Amlodipine belongs to the dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers that inhibit L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle. By blocking calcium entry, the vessels relax and dilate, which reduces systemic vascular resistance and lowers blood pressure. Amlodipine is commonly prescribed for hypertension (often as a once-daily agent) and can be used for angina as well.

The other medications don’t fit this mechanism or indication: levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement, not a BP-lowering agent; atorvastatin lowers cholesterol; fexofenadine is an antihistamine for allergies.