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Comparison of AQ-A 39 with propanolol and placebo in ischaemic heart disease

H J Gilfrich1, M Oberhoffer, J Witzke

  • 1I Medizinische Abteilung, St. Katharinen-Krankenhaus, Frankfurt am Main, F.R.G.

European Heart Journal
|December 1, 1987
PubMed

Insights

AQ-A 39 (falipamil) effectively reduced heart rate and improved exercise tolerance in patients with ischemic heart disease, similar to propranolol. This heart rate-reducing agent shows promise for short-term management.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Ischemic heart disease (IHD) management requires agents to reduce cardiac workload.
  • Heart rate reduction is a key strategy to decrease myocardial oxygen demand.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of AQ-A 39 (falipamil) as a heart rate-reducing agent in patients with IHD.
  • To compare the effects of AQ-A 39 with propranolol and placebo on cardiovascular parameters.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, controlled study involving 10 male patients with angiographically confirmed IHD.
  • Single intravenous administration of AQ-A 39 (2 mg kg-1) or propranolol (0.1 mg kg-1) compared to placebo.
  • Assessment of heart rate, systolic arterial pressure, double product, and exercise tolerance under various conditions (supine, orthostasis, exercise).

Main Results:

  • Both AQ-A 39 and propranolol reduced heart rate, with AQ-A 39 showing a greater blunting of the orthostatic heart rate increase.
  • AQ-A 39 and propranolol significantly increased exercise time compared to placebo.
  • AQ-A 39 increased plasma noradrenaline levels, while propranolol decreased systolic arterial pressure.

Conclusions:

  • AQ-A 39 demonstrates efficacy in reducing heart rate and improving exercise capacity in patients with IHD.
  • The findings suggest AQ-A 39 is a potential therapeutic option for the short-term management of ischemic heart disease.

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