Isradipine improves platelet function in hypertensives.

The effect of treatment for eight weeks with isradipine 1.25 mg twice daily for 4 weeks and thereafter 2.5 mg twice daily for 4 weeks on ex vivo platelet function was investigated in 10 male hypertensive patients, aged 51 (6.1) y. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, platelet aggregation in response to ADP, serum thromboxane B2 and beta-thromboglobulin levels were significantly decreased at rest before exercise ergometry, during exercise and at rest after exercise. The platelet count, platelet sensitivity and the plasma levels of 6-oxo-prostaglandin F1 alpha were not affected by isradipine. It is concluded that a compound that lowers blood pressure and inhibits platelet activation may be of clinical benefit in the routine treatment of hypertension.