Effects of L-arginin on platelet aggregation, endothelial function and exercise tolerance in patients with stable angina of effort

Aim. Examination of the action of donor NO (L-arginin) on platelet aggregat ion, endothelial function and exercise tolerance in patients with stable an gina of effort (SAE). Material and methods. 42 patients with SAE (functional class I-II) and 10 h ealthy volunteers (control group) were assigned to two groups. 22 patients of group 1 were randomized to cross-over. They received cardiket (60 mg/day ) for 10 days or cardiket (60 mg/day) in combination with L-arginin (15 g/d ay for 10 days). 20 SAE patients of group 2 and control group received L-ar ginin (15 g/day for 10 days). In each group blood lipids were examined, and bicycle exercise test (BET) was performed. In addition, platelet aggregati on and endothelial function were studied in group 2 and control group befor e and after the course of L-arginin. Results. Compared to control group, endothelial function significantly impr oved in group 2 (from 5.0+/-2.9 to 7.8+/-4.1% vs 7.1+/-1.9 to 6.6+/-4.8%) ( M+/-SD). BET duration increased in all the patients. After ADP addition in concentrations 1.5, 2.0, and 5.0 micromol/l platelet aggregation declined i n 17 patients except 3 in whom the aggregation remained unchanged. Conclusion. Positive effect of L-arginin on endothelial function, exercise tolerance and platelet aggregation was observed in patients with stable ang ina of effort (functional class I-II). Therefore, arginin can be recommende d as an adjuvant in the treatment of patients with ischemic heart disease.