Effects of cromakalim, a potassium channel opener, on regional blood flow in conscious spontaneously hypertensive rats.

We studied the effects of cromakalim, a potassium channel opener, on regional blood flow in conscious spontaneously hypertensive rats using microspheres. Cromakalim produced significant hypotension and increased blood flow in the stomach, skeletal muscle and skin. Calculated vascular resistances decreased in many organ vascular beds. Although nifedipine also showed a similar hemodynamic profile, differences were observed in the brain, gastrointestinal tract and skin.