• beta-adrenergic-blocking class
• bepridil (Vascor)
• diltiazem (Cardizem)
• nicardipine (Cardene)
• nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia)
• nitrates
• verapamil (Calan, Isoptin)

Antianginals

Brand/Generic Drug Names

amyl nitrate, isosorbide, Nitro-Tabs/nitroglycerin, atenolol, dipyramidole, metoprolol, propranolol, amlodipine, Cardizem/diltiazem, Procardia/nifedipine, Calan/verapamil

Common uses

chronic stable angina pectoris, unstable angina, vasospastic angina; some are used in dysrhythmias and hypertension

Pharmacology

Nitrates: dilate coronary and systemic arteries, causing decreased pre- and afterload Calcium channel blockers: dilate coronary arteries, decrease SA/AV node conduction beta-adrenergic blockers: decrease heart rate to decrease myocardial oxygen use dipyramidole: selectively dilates coronary arteries to increase coronary blood flow

Class contraindications

known hypersensitivity, increased intracranial pressure, cerebral hemorrhage

Class precautions

postural hypotension, pregnancy, lactation, children, renal disease, hepatic injury

Interactions

varies by drug

Adverse Reactions

postural hypotension, headache, flushing, dizziness, nausea, edema, drowsiness, rash, dysrhythmias, fatigue

Additional Information

Assess orthostatic blood pressure, pulses
Assess pain: duration, onset, character, activity at onset
Evaluate therapeutic response: decrease/prevention of pain

Date of most recent Update

August 06, 2002

Further information is available in the writeup for the specific name(s) of this medication class