What is the main outcome when calcium channel blockers dilate the aorta and other large arteries?

Calcium channel blockers primarily work by inhibiting the movement of calcium into the cells of the arterial walls. This inhibition leads to the relaxation and dilation of the smooth muscle in the blood vessels, particularly in larger arteries like the aorta.

When these arteries dilate, there is a reduction in resistance within the circulatory system, which directly contributes to lowering blood pressure. Specifically, the dilation of large arteries results in a decreased workload on the heart, allowing it to pump more efficiently. Consequently, this leads to a reduction in systolic blood pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries during the contraction of the heart muscle.

By decreasing systolic blood pressure, calcium channel blockers help manage hypertension effectively, providing significant cardiovascular benefits. This outcome underlines why the main effect of calcium channel blockers in dilating large arteries is related to reduced systolic blood pressure.