What is the primary therapeutic goal of Verapamil in the treatment of angina?

Verapamil serves as a calcium channel blocker that primarily works by decreasing myocardial contractility and heart rate, leading to a reduction in myocardial oxygen demand. In patients with angina, the heart requires an adequate supply of oxygen to meet the demands imposed by activities or stress. When workload is decreased, as facilitated by Verapamil, the heart consumes less oxygen, thereby alleviating symptoms of angina.

Decreasing myocardial oxygen demand is crucial because angina typically occurs when there is an imbalance between oxygen supply and demand. By reducing factors such as heart rate and myocardial contractility, Verapamil helps ensure that the available oxygen supply can meet the metabolic needs of the heart muscle.

While enhancing myocardial oxygen delivery and stabilizing heart rhythm are important considerations in cardiac therapy, the primary therapeutic goal of Verapamil in the context of angina is specifically focused on reducing myocardial oxygen demand.