Synergistic Actions of Nitrite-β-Adrenergic Blocking Agents in the Therapy of Angina Pectoris

Abstract

Nitrites and β-adrenergic blocking agents reduce myocardial oxygen consumption by different mechanisms and may therefore act additively, and perhaps synergistically in angina s pectoris. Furthermore, the beneficial effects of one drug may counteract the undesirable effects of the other, thus enhancing the results of therapy while decreasing its secondary effects. Controlled-release oral nitroglycerin has now been shown to induce cardiovascular responses which are similar to those of sublingual nitroglycerin, but last significantly longer. This suggests that combining β-blockers with controlled-release oral nitroglycerin may be a useful approach to anti-anginal prophylaxis.