Effects of isosorbide dinitrate on thromboxane A2 synthesis in carbon dioxide exposed platelets

Isosorbide dinitrate (Nitorol R, 100 nmol/l) blocked an increase in thromboxane B2 concentration in human platelet-rich plasma caused by exposure to high CO2 tension, in the presence of arachidonic acid. Thromboxane B2 concentrations obtained at 1 or 2 mmol/l or arachidonic acid were not influenced by isosorbide dinitrate at low CO2 tension. Inhibitory action of isosorbide dinitrate on the thromboxane A2 synthesis appears to have a close relation to the site of CO2 action.