NIFEDIPINE IN ISCHEMIC-HEART-DISEASE - DA NGER OR DIFFERENTIAL APPROACH

Pharmacological properties of nifedipine are compared to those of othe r calcium antagonists. The author disagrees with those investigators w ho make conclusions on nifedipine inadequacy in any forms of ischemic heart disease emphasizing its negative effect on the survival. The aut hor argues that negative effects of nifedipine are proved in unstable angina pectoris and acute myocardial infarction whereas in stable angi na of effort its effectiveness may be superior to other antianginal dr ugs. Such unwanted events as developing tolerance to nifedipine in its long-term use, withdrawal syndrome in its sudden discontinuation are not unevitable. It is thought valid to prescribe nifedipine in stable ischemic heart disease.