What type of medication is Diltiazem?

Diltiazem is classified as a calcium channel blocker. This type of medication is primarily used to treat hypertension and angina by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and smooth muscle cells. By doing so, Diltiazem helps to relax blood vessels, reduce heart rate, and lower blood pressure, making it effective for conditions related to the cardiovascular system.

Calcium channel blockers like Diltiazem are instrumental in managing not only high blood pressure but also certain heart arrhythmias. The mechanism of action involves blocking the channels that allow calcium to enter the cells, which in turn affects muscle contraction and vascular tone, leading to the therapeutic effects observed in patients.

In contrast, other types of medications listed do not relate to Diltiazem's classification or function. ACE inhibitors work on a different pathway to help manage blood pressure, antihistamines are primarily used for allergic reactions, and synthetic opioids are used for pain relief, highlighting how Diltiazem's action is unique among these medication types.