Niludipine

Niludipine is a calcium channel blocker that is primarily used in the treatment of hypertension. It belongs to the dihydropyridine subclass of calcium channel blockers, which also includes drugs such as amlodipine, nifedipine, and felodipine. Niludipine works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, thereby relaxing these muscles and reducing blood pressure.

Pharmacology

Niludipine, like other dihydropyridines, binds to the alpha-1 subunit of L-type calcium channels, which are located in the cell membranes of cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cells. By blocking these channels, niludipine prevents the influx of calcium ions into these cells. This results in the relaxation of vascular smooth muscle, which leads to a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance and a reduction in blood pressure.

Clinical Use

Niludipine is primarily used in the treatment of hypertension. It may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. Niludipine has also been used in the treatment of angina pectoris, although it is not a first-line treatment for this condition.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of niludipine are related to its vasodilatory effects and include dizziness, headache, and flushing. Less common side effects include palpitations, tachycardia, and edema. Rare but serious side effects include hypotension, heart failure, and myocardial infarction.

Contraindications

Niludipine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to niludipine or other dihydropyridines. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe aortic stenosis, as it may worsen the condition.

See Also

• Calcium channel blocker
• Hypertension
• Dihydropyridine

Niludipine Resources
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