Table 1. Comparison between atenolol and diltiazem

Atenolol Diltiazem
Drug class Beta-blockers Calcium channel blockers
Main action Negative inotropicNegative chronotropicAnti-ischemicAnti-arrhythmic Anti-arrhythmicPositive lusitropic
Theoretical benefit Relief of outflow tract obstructionHeart rate controlAntiarrhythmic Heart rate controlImproved LV relaxation