What type of medications are B blockers and Ca channel blockers categorized as?

B-blockers (beta-blockers) and calcium channel blockers are categorized as cardiac drugs because they primarily affect the cardiovascular system. B-blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to a decrease in heart rate, contractility, and overall cardiac output. This makes them useful in managing conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and arrhythmias.

Calcium channel blockers, on the other hand, inhibit the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and smooth muscle cells. This action leads to vasodilation, reduced heart rate, and decreased contractility, making these medications effective in treating hypertension and angina.

Both classes of drugs target mechanisms directly related to heart function, thus justifying their classification as cardiac drugs. They play significant roles in the management of various cardiovascular conditions, which distinguishes them from other categories like antidepressants, psychoactive drugs, or antihistamines, which serve different therapeutic purposes unrelated to heart conditions.