[Comparison of the effects of depot isosorbide dinitrate (Isoket Retard 120) and diltiazem in patients with exertional angina pectoris].

In a simple blind crossover 7-week study with a randomized beginning the authors compared in 13 patients with stable angina pectoris after exercise the action of diltiazem (Blocalcin 60, Lachema) and isosorbidedi nitrate (Isoket retard 120, Schwarz). Both drugs improved significantly, as compared with placebo, the tolerance of the load, reduced the frequency of stenocardias per 24 hours, diltiazem also the nitroglycerin consumption per 24 hours. Diltiazem reduced significantly, as compared with isosorbidedi nitrate, the pulse rate at rest, it reduced significantly Robinson's index and the diastolic pressure at rest. In none of the other investigated parameters there was a significant difference between the two drugs and both are valuable in the treatment of angina after exercise. Diltiazem was well tolerated by the patients, while headache was a frequent side-effect of isosorbide dinitrate.