Which of the following CCBs are classified as dihydropyridines?

Dihydropyridines are a specific subclass of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) that primarily act on vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and a decrease in blood pressure. Nicardipine fits this classification as it is designed to target the vascular system effectively.

In contrast, other medications listed in the choices serve different roles in medical treatment. Verapamil and diltiazem are classified as nondihydropyridine CCBs, which have significant effects on both the heart and the vascular system. They not only help with hypertension but also have the ability to decrease heart rate and reduce contractility. Propranolol is not a calcium channel blocker but rather a beta-blocker, which works by inhibiting the effects of adrenaline on beta-adrenergic receptors, primarily affecting heart rate and contractility.

Thus, Nicardipine stands out as the correct answer because it is distinctly categorized as a dihydropyridine, making it effective for conditions where vasodilation and blood pressure reduction are desired without directly affecting cardiac function like the nondihydropyridine CCBs do.