Which medication class is a first-line pharmacologic treatment for Raynaud's phenomenon?

Which medication class is a first-line pharmacologic treatment for Raynaud's phenomenon?

• A. Nifedipine
• B. Amlodipine
• C. Diltiazem
• D. Verapamil

Answer: (B)

Vasospasm of digital arteries in Raynaud’s phenomenon is best addressed with drugs that promote peripheral vasodilation, and calcium channel blockers of the dihydropyridine class do this effectively by relaxing vascular smooth muscle. Amlodipine, a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, provides steady peripheral vasodilation with once-daily dosing and good tolerability, making it a common first-line choice. Non-dihydropyridine blockers like diltiazem and verapamil affect heart rate and conduction more and are less favored as initial therapy for Raynaud’s. While other dihydropyridines such as nifedipine can also be used, amlodipine’s dosing convenience and tolerability often lead to it being selected in exam contexts.

Vasospasm of digital arteries in Raynaud’s phenomenon is best addressed with drugs that promote peripheral vasodilation, and calcium channel blockers of the dihydropyridine class do this effectively by relaxing vascular smooth muscle. Amlodipine, a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, provides steady peripheral vasodilation with once-daily dosing and good tolerability, making it a common first-line choice. Non-dihydropyridine blockers like diltiazem and verapamil affect heart rate and conduction more and are less favored as initial therapy for Raynaud’s. While other dihydropyridines such as nifedipine can also be used, amlodipine’s dosing convenience and tolerability often lead to it being selected in exam contexts.