In hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which medication class is commonly used to relieve symptoms?

• A. Calcium Channel Blockers
• B. ACE Inhibitors
• C. Beta Blockers
• D. Diuretics

Answer: (C)

Reducing the dynamic obstruction in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is key to symptom relief, and lowering both heart rate and contractility does this most effectively. Beta blockers slow the heart rate and lessen the force of contraction, which increases diastolic filling time and reduces the outflow tract pressure gradient. That direct effect on the obstruction translates into improved exertional symptoms like shortness of breath and chest pain, making beta blockers the standard first-line choice for symptom relief in this condition.

Calcium channel blockers can be used in some patients as an alternative to reduce contractility, but they aren’t the preferred first option. Diuretics remove preload and can worsen the dynamic obstruction, so they’re used with caution. ACE inhibitors mainly reduce afterload and aren’t targeted to relieve the obstruction in HCM.