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Calcium-channel antagonists for prevention of atherosclerosis
S M Borcherding1, S G Meeves, N E Klutman
1University of Tennessee, Memphis.
Objective:
To critically evaluate the current literature regarding the role of calcium-channel antagonists in preventing atherosclerosis.
Data Sources:
English language clinical studies, abstracts, conference proceedings, and review articles pertaining to calcium-channel antagonists and atherosclerosis.
Study Selection:
Relevant animal and human studies examining the role of calcium-channel antagonists in atherosclerosis prevention and treatment.
Data Extraction:
Potential mechanisms for the development of atherosclerosis and the use of calcium antagonists for preventing and treating coronary artery disease are discussed. Animal studies are summarized; next, significant data from human clinical studies are presented.
Data Synthesis:
Available studies are described and discussed.
Conclusions:
Results from animal and clinical trials in humans suggest that calcium antagonists may retard the development and progression of atherosclerosis. However, most clinical trials to date have been conducted in patients with proven atherosclerotic plaques. Further studies examining the role of calcium-channel antagonists in preventing and treating atherosclerosis are needed, but may be difficult to conduct because of the large numbers of patients required, long trial duration, and associated costs.
Insights
Calcium-channel antagonists show promise in slowing atherosclerosis development and progression. Further research is needed, particularly in preventing the condition, though trials face challenges.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a major cause of cardiovascular disease.
- Calcium-channel antagonists are widely used to treat hypertension and angina.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate existing literature on calcium-channel antagonists' role in atherosclerosis prevention.
- To explore mechanisms and clinical evidence for their efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of English-language studies (clinical, abstracts, reviews).
- Inclusion of animal and human studies on atherosclerosis prevention and treatment.
- Analysis of mechanisms and clinical trial data.
Main Results:
- Animal and human studies suggest calcium antagonists can retard atherosclerosis development.
- Most human trials focused on patients with existing atherosclerotic plaques.
Conclusions:
- Calcium-channel antagonists may play a role in retarding atherosclerosis progression.
- Further prevention-focused studies are warranted but present logistical and financial challenges.