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The effect of nifedipine on norepinephrine release
Archives Internationales De Pharmacodynamie Et De Therapie
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Calcium channel blockers like nifedipine can trigger the release of norepinephrine from sympathetic nerves. This suggests these drugs may have effects beyond blocking calcium entry into cells.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- Verapamil and diltiazem were previously shown to release norepinephrine from sympathetic nerves.
- The mechanism of action for calcium channel blockers on sympathetic nerves requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker, on norepinephrine release from sympathetic nerves.
- To compare the effects of nifedipine with verapamil and diltiazem.
Main Methods:
- In vitro superfusion of rat tail artery and guinea-pig vas deferens with nifedipine.
- Measurement of 3H-norepinephrine release under spontaneous and stimulated conditions.
- Column chromatography to analyze norepinephrine and its metabolites.
Main Results:
- Nifedipine caused a significant release of 3H-norepinephrine in rat tail arteries and guinea-pig vas deferens.
- Nifedipine enhanced the release of 3H-norepinephrine induced by electrical stimulation.
- Nifedipine did not alter the proportion of norepinephrine metabolites, suggesting intracellular release.
Conclusions:
- Calcium entry blockers, including nifedipine, interact with sympathetic nerves.
- The observed norepinephrine release is likely due to an action other than the inhibition of calcium influx.
- These findings expand the understanding of calcium channel blocker pharmacology.