What is a common complication associated with calcium channel blockers?

Gingival hyperplasia is recognized as a common complication associated with the use of calcium channel blockers. This condition involves the overgrowth of gum tissue, which can lead to significant oral health issues, including difficulty in maintaining oral hygiene, potential dental complications, and cosmetic concerns.

Calcium channel blockers work by inhibiting the influx of calcium into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle cells, which promotes vasodilation and reduces blood pressure. However, this mechanism can also impact the gingival tissue. The precise pathophysiological mechanism isn't entirely understood, but it is thought to be linked to changes in fibroblast activity and the composition of the extracellular matrix within the gums, leading to the proliferation of gingival tissues.

While there are other potential side effects of calcium channel blockers—such as hypotension or peripheral edema—they do not commonly result in the specific issue of gingival hyperplasia. The other options, like hypercalcemia and hypocalcemia, relate to calcium levels in the body but are not direct complications of calcium channel blocker therapy. Pulp necrosis is also not associated with calcium channel blockers; it pertains more to issues related to tooth trauma or severe infection rather than to the pharmacological effects of these medications. Thus, gingival hyperplasia is