Hemodynamic Effects of Calcium-Channel Antagonists

Comparison of the Hemodynamic Effects of Calcium-Channel Antagonists 

Note AV = atrioventricular 0 = no effects + = minor effects -H- = moderate effects and  

Nicardipine is contraindicated in patients with advanced aortic stenosis because the decrease in afterload prodnced by the drug may worsen myocardial oxygen balance in these patients. Some patients experience worsened severity, fre-qnency, or dnration of angina upon initiation of therapy. 

Nicardipine shonld be nsed cautiously in patients with hepatic dysfunction or with CHF because the drug has a negative inotropic effect. 

Concomitant administration of cimetidine results in higher plasma levels of nicardipine. Serum levels of dioxin should be carefully monitored because some calcium-channel antagonists may increase plasma levels of digitalis preparations. 

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