In the treatment of chronic stable angina, how do calcium channel blockers function?

Calcium channel blockers are primarily used in the management of chronic stable angina by enhancing myocardial oxygen supply. They achieve this by causing vasodilation of the coronary arteries, which improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart muscle. This is particularly important in angina, where the heart's demand for oxygen often exceeds its supply, leading to ischemia and pain.

By relaxing the smooth muscles of the coronary arteries and peripheral vasculature, calcium channel blockers can increase the diameter of the vessels, allowing for a greater volume of blood to flow through the heart, thereby improving oxygen delivery during episodes of stress or exertion.

While these medications also have effects on myocardial oxygen demand, such as reducing contractility and heart rate, their primary role in angina treatment lies in their ability to enhance oxygen supply to the myocardium. Other options, such as decreasing blood volume or increasing heart rate, do not align with the mechanisms through which calcium channel blockers operate in the context of angina management.