ANTIATHEROSCLEROTIC EFFECTS OF CALCIUM-ANTAGONISTS

Effects of calcium antagonists on atherosclerosis in experimental anim als: A variety of calcium antagonists can inhibit the development of a ortic atherosclerosis induced by marked hypercholesterolemia in choles terol-fed animals, following mechanical injury or intoxication with vi tamin D, but not in the heritable hyperlipidemic rabbit. This effect i s not mediated by modifications to plasma lipids, blood pressure or ot her conventional risk factors. Effects of calcium antagonists on ather osclerosis in humans: It has been difficult to assess the effects of c alcium antagonists on the atherogenetic process in humans. Studies on the action of calcium antagonists in the primary prevention of atheros clerosis are obviously desirable; however, they are almost impossible to perform due to the slow development of atherosclerosis and the need for long-term follow-up. Data from several clinical trials in patient s with established coronary artery disease have indicated that calcium antagonists may prevent the development of new atherosclerotic plaque s and may even slow the progression of established lesions. Conclusion s: Present experimental and clinical evidence indicates that calcium a ntagonists may be able to prevent or retard the progression of atheros clerosis by mechanisms independent of and in addition to blood pressur e reduction. Large long-term trials are needed to confirm this finding and to determine whether the effect is associated with a decrease in atherosclerotic morbid and fatal complications.