Selective and specific I(f) inhibition: new perspectives for the treatment of stable angina.

Ivabradine is the first selective and specific inhibitor of the I(f) current (the cardiac pacemaker 'funny' current), and provides pure heart rate reduction without altering myocardial contractility, the cardiac conduction system or coronary vascular resistance. Clinical proof of the antianginal efficacy and tolerability of ivabradine comes from the largest clinical development programme that has ever been performed in stable angina, involving more than 5000 patients. Ivabradine was shown to be as effective as well-established reference antianginal drugs, such as beta-blockers and calcium antagonists. It is well tolerated and is free of the most commonly observed side effects of currently prescribed antianginal drugs. It offers clear therapeutic benefits for a whole range of patients with stable angina, including those with contraindications or intolerance to beta-blockers.