EFFECTS OF LONG-ACTING NITRATES ON PLATEL ET-AGGREGATION AND PROSTAGLANDIN PRODUCTION

Platelet aggregation and prostaglandin levels were examined in 50 pati ents with coronary heart disease concurrent with Functional Classes II -III angina who received nitroglycerine-retard (n=20; Group 1), corova s (n=20; Group 2), and placebo (n=10; Group 3). Long-actin nitrates we re found to exert a positive action on thrombocytic hemostasis as decr eased platelet aggregation and reverse aggregation in 25 % of the coro vas-treated patients. Placebo failed to have the same action. Nitrogly cerine-retard caused an increase in prostacycline concentrations, Nitr oglycerine-retard and corovas produced a clear-cut antianginal effect. They promoted the reduction in the number of anginal episodes and of nitroglycerine tablets used. No antianginal effect was absent when pla cebo was used.