Effects of calcium channel blockers on neurologic outcome after focal ischemia in rabbits.

To determine the efficacy of calcium channel blockers in preserving neurologic function after central nervous system ischemia, we studied three such agents in two animal models. We treated rabbits after inducing ischemia in the brain with intra-arterial microspheres and in the spinal cord using a removable aortic occluding device. We found no benefit, in terms of neurologic functional outcome, from lidoflazine, nimodipine, or nicardipine. All three agents elevated regional blood flow in the spinal cord. We conclude that calcium antagonists are not likely to prove beneficial if used alone in the treatment of focal central nervous system ischemia.