[Nifedipine in ischemic heart disease: a ban on its use or a differential approach to therapy?]

Pharmacological properties of nifedipine are compared to those of other calcium antagonists. The author disagrees with those investigators who make conclusions on nifedipine inadequacy in any forms of ischemic heart disease emphasizing its negative effect on the survival. The author argues that negative effects of nifedipine are proved in unstable angina pectoris and acute myocardial infarction whereas in stable angina of effort its effectiveness may be superior to other antianginal drugs. Such unwanted events as developing tolerance to nifedipine in its long-term use, withdrawal syndrome in its sudden discontinuation are not inevitable. It is thought valid to prescribe nifedipine in stable ischemic heart disease.