Tiamdipine

Tiamdipine is a pharmaceutical compound that belongs to the class of calcium channel blockers. It is primarily used in the management of hypertension and angina pectoris. Tiamdipine functions by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions through L-type calcium channels, which are found in the smooth muscle cells of the cardiovascular system.

Pharmacology

Tiamdipine acts as a selective calcium channel antagonist. By blocking calcium entry into cells, it causes vasodilation, which leads to a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance and subsequently lowers blood pressure. This mechanism also helps in reducing the workload on the heart, making it effective in treating angina.

Mechanism of Action

The primary action of Tiamdipine is the inhibition of L-type calcium channels. These channels are responsible for the contraction of smooth muscle cells. By blocking these channels, Tiamdipine prevents calcium from entering the cells, leading to relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle and dilation of the arteries.

Pharmacokinetics

Tiamdipine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver. It is highly protein-bound and has a moderate half-life, allowing for once or twice daily dosing. The drug is primarily excreted via the kidneys.

Clinical Uses

Tiamdipine is indicated for the treatment of:

• Hypertension: It helps in lowering high blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of stroke, myocardial infarction, and other cardiovascular events.
• Angina pectoris: By reducing the oxygen demand of the heart, Tiamdipine alleviates chest pain associated with angina.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Tiamdipine include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Flushing
• Peripheral edema

Less common but serious side effects may include:

• Hypotension
• Bradycardia
• Heart failure

Contraindications

Tiamdipine should not be used in patients with:

• Severe aortic stenosis
• Cardiogenic shock
• Known hypersensitivity to the drug

Drug Interactions

Tiamdipine may interact with other medications such as:

• Beta-blockers: May increase the risk of bradycardia and heart block.
• Digoxin: May increase digoxin levels, requiring monitoring.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors: May increase the plasma concentration of Tiamdipine.

Also see

• Calcium channel blocker
• Hypertension
• Angina pectoris
• L-type calcium channel