Nifedipine In Cardiovascular Disorders:

Abstract

Cardiac cellular functions depend on the free cytosolic concentration of Calcium ions. Calcium ions influence the concentration of muscle cells in the myocardium as well as coronary and systemic vessels. The generation and conduction of electric al impulses in the heart is also influenced by intracellular concentration of Calcium ions. This concentration is largely dependent on the movement of Calcium ions from extracellular space into the cell through the surface membrane.By decreasing systemic vascular resistance and arterial pressure, nifedipine causes reflex sympathetic stimulation of the heart. This may increase the left ventricular outflow tract obstruct ion in patients with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy. The drug may be combined with beta4drenoreceptor blocker to get beneficial results in this situation.In summary, nifedipine is the most widely used calcium antagonist, useful for treatment of all forms of angina pectoris. The drug is also used for treating systemic pulmonary hypertension. By preserving myocardial structure from ischemic changes it may be useful during coronary angioplasty, and it is under investigation for treatment of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in children.