Which medications are commonly associated with causing bradyarrhythmias?

Enhance your knowledge with the Internal Medicine End of Rotation Exam. Challenge yourself with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations to ensure you excel.

Bradyarrhythmias, which are characterized by a slower than normal heart rate, can be caused by various medications that affect the heart's rhythm and electrical conduction. The correct answer highlights beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and digoxin as medications commonly associated with this condition.

Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, leading to a decrease in heart rate and reducing the force of heart contractions. They are often prescribed for conditions like hypertension, heart failure, and arrhythmias. By slowing down the heart rate, they can easily lead to bradyarrhythmias, especially in susceptible individuals or when used in higher doses.

Calcium channel blockers also have a significant impact on heart rate, specifically non-dihydropyridine types like verapamil and diltiazem. These medications inhibit the entry of calcium into heart and vascular smooth muscle cells, slowing heart rate by affecting conduction through the atrioventricular (AV) node. This can result in bradycardia, particularly when other medications that also slow down heart rate are used concurrently.

Digoxin, another medication included in this correct option, is used primarily in heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It increases myocardial contractility and decreases heart rate through its

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