Developed by Bayer in Germany,
nifedipine was shown to be effective in the treatment of patients with
angina pectoris by Japanese investigators. Professor Kimura first reported the efficacy of
nifedipine in patients with
angina pectoris and those findings have been replicated in numerous trials conducted since then. Clinical trials found a low incidence of fixed
coronary artery stenosis in Japanese patients with
variant angina pectoris, and a complete antianginal response with Ca2+ channel antagonist such as
nifedipine. It was hypothesised that the mechanism of this benefit with
nifedipine was because of a strong coronary vasodilating action along with an inhibitory effect on coronary
spasm. Recent evidence has established the tolerability and efficacy of once-daily
dosage forms, which provide stable plasma
nifedipine concentrations, in the management of coronary artery disorders.