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Nifedipine-induced hypotension and mesenteric ischemia
W K Goglin1, B M Elliott, S A Deppe
1Anesthesia and Operative Service, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, Tex. 78234.
Southern Medical Journal
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Nifedipine can cause hypotension, leading to mesenteric angina in patients on beta blockers and nitrates. This rare complication requires consideration in acute abdominal pain cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Beta blockers and nitrates are common antianginal therapies.
- Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker used for hypertension and angina.
- Mesenteric angina is a rare but serious condition.
Observation:
- A patient on beta blocker and nitrate therapy developed hypotension after nifedipine administration.
- This led to mesenteric angina, necessitating an emergency exploratory celiotomy.
Findings:
- Hypotension induced by nifedipine can paradoxically precipitate mesenteric angina.
- This is an unusual but critical complication of combined antianginal therapy.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider nifedipine-induced hypotension and mesenteric angina in patients with acute abdominal pain on this regimen.
- Awareness of this adverse drug reaction is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.