[Effects of calcium antagonist drugs on glucide metabolism]

The extension of the clinical use of Calcium entry Blockers (CEBs) indicates the need for a careful evaluation of possible adverse effects. Recently, contrasting data have been reported in some studies on the effect of CEBs on oral and i.v. glucose tolerance tests. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the potential diabetogenic properties of CEBs in normal subjects and their activities in diabetic patients. The data present in literature and also personal observations outline the safety of CEBs. In fact, there is a low possibility to derange the balance between insulin and glucagon secretion after acute and chronic administration of CEBs at conventional dosages.