EFFECTS OF FELODIPINE VERSUS NIFEDIPINE ON EXERCISE TOLERANCE IN STABLE ANGINA-PECTORIS

The effects of single doses of felodipine (5 and 10 mg) and nifedipine (10 and 20 mg) on chronic stable effort angina pectoris were assessed in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study of 24 patients receiving beta blockers and short-acting nitroglycerin. The effects w ere measured by repeated bicycle ergometer tests. The total work, and time until 1 mm of ST depression increased significantly by 9 to 31% a fter both active drugs at both dose levels in comparison with placebo. The differences were not significant between drugs or doses. At rest, blood pressure decreased (10 to 15%) and heart rate increased (5 to 1 0%) significantly after both active drugs. During exercise at the high est comparable work load, systolic blood pressure decreased significan tly (23 to 26%), whereas heart rate was not affected after felodipine and nifedipine compared with placebo. The 2 drugs were well tolerated, and side effects were mild. Therefore, single doses of 5 and 10 mg of felodipine, and 10 and 20 mg of nifedipine have similar anti-anginal and anti-ischemic properties. However, felodipine has a longer duratio n of action, which may improve compliance.