Exacerbation of asthmatic symptoms after cessation of nifedipine therapy

Marked improvement in the respiratory status of two patients with chronic obstructive lung disease was observed during treatment with nifedipine for angina pectoris. Cessation of the drug led to an exacerbation of asthmatic symptoms in both patients which necessitated initiation of bronchodilator therapy. Nifedipine is a known calcium antagonist and as such it has been suggested that it diminishes the transmembrane penetration of calcium ion into bronchial smooth muscle cells and mast cells, thus leading to bronchial muscle relaxation and less mediator release. The complication of increased asthmatic symptoms after cessation of nifedipine therapy has not been previously emphasized and should be taken into account while treating patients with known obstructive airway disease.