Certified Inpatient Coding (CIC) Practice Exam

Propranolol is the drug that does not belong to the class of calcium channel blockers. Instead, it is classified as a non-selective beta-adrenergic antagonist. Beta-blockers such as propranolol work by blocking the effects of epinephrine (adrenaline) on beta receptors, which results in a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. This mechanism is different from that of calcium channel blockers, which primarily inhibit the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and smooth muscle cells, leading to relaxation of these muscles and dilation of blood vessels.

On the other hand, drugs like diltiazem, amlodipine, and verapamil are all calcium channel blockers that work by preventing calcium from entering cells. This results in decreased force of contraction of the heart and dilation of the blood vessels, therefore lowering blood pressure. Understanding the distinct pharmacological categories and their mechanisms of action is fundamental for effective medication management in clinical settings.