DHM 32-550 in patients with angina and normal coronary arteries: dose/response relationship.

This is the first report of the use of DHM 32-550 a dehydrogenated peptide ergot alkaloid with both alpha and beta adrenoceptor blocking activity, in patients with angina-like chest pain. Five patients were studied to assess a dose/response relationship. No deleterious effects on blood pressure occurred at either rest or on effort. The frequency of angina attacks and the number of glyceryl trinitrate tablets needed per week was appreciably reduced during treatment with both 'high' and 'low' dosages of the agent compared with placebo. The duration of treadmill exercise was appreciably prolonged. Within the limitations of this small, open pilot study, it appears that oral DHM 32-550 could be used safely in patients with chest pain due to cardiomyopathy or to coronary spasm.