Dihydropyridines

Dihydropyridines are a class of calcium channel blockers of L-type calcium channels. They are mainly used to treat hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, and angina pectoris.

History

Dihydropyridines were first synthesized in the late 19th century, but their pharmacological importance was not recognized until the 1960s when their potent vasodilator effects were discovered.

Pharmacology

Dihydropyridines work by blocking the L-type calcium channels in the heart and blood vessels. This reduces the amount of calcium that can enter the cells, which in turn reduces the force of the heart's contraction and widens the blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart.

Clinical use

Dihydropyridines are used to treat a variety of cardiovascular conditions. They are particularly effective in treating hypertension, as they can significantly reduce blood pressure. They are also used to treat angina pectoris and cardiac arrhythmia.

Side effects

Like all medications, dihydropyridines can cause side effects. These can include dizziness, flushing, headache, and swelling of the legs. In rare cases, they can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Examples

Examples of dihydropyridines include amlodipine, felodipine, isradipine, nicardipine, and nifedipine.

See also

• Calcium channel blocker
• Hypertension
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Angina pectoris

Dihydropyridines Resources
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References

External links

• Dihydropyridines at the US National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH)

Further reading

• The Pharmacology of Dihydropyridines by J. Striessnig, H. Glossmann. Springer-Verlag, 1988. ISBN 978-3-540-50227-9.
• Dihydropyridines: Progress in Pharmacology and Therapy by E. Szabadi, C. M. Bradshaw. Wiley-Blackwell, 1993. ISBN 978-0-471-93970-8.