What type of drug is Verapamil commonly used for?

Verapamil is primarily classified as an antihypertensive drug, specifically a calcium channel blocker. It works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and the myocardium (heart muscle), leading to relaxation of the blood vessels and a decrease in heart rate. This mechanism results in reduced blood pressure, making Verapamil effective for treating hypertension.

Additionally, Verapamil is utilized in managing certain types of arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart). Its role in providing cardiovascular benefit through lowering blood pressure and improving heart function cements its primary classification as an antihypertensive drug.

Other categories like antibiotics, antidepressants, or antipsychotics do not encompass the actions or uses of Verapamil, as they serve different therapeutic purposes not related to the regulation of cardiovascular health or blood pressure.