Potassium Channel Activators
Potassium channel activators stimulate ATP sensitive K+ channels, causing an increase in intracellular cGMP and subsequent relaxation of smooth muscle in the:
- Heart
- Venous capacitance vessels
- Arterioles
| Property | Nicorandil |
|---|---|
| Uses | HTN, angina, CHF |
| Route of Administration | PO |
| Dosing | 10-30mg BD |
| Absorption | 80% PO bioavailability |
| Distribution | Negligible protein binding |
| Metabolism | Hepatic denitration |
| Elimination | Renal elimination of active drug and metabolites |
| CVS | ↓ Preload, ↓ afterload, ↓ BP, ↑ coronary flow |
| CNS | Headache, improves with ongoing use |
| Haeme | Inhibition of platelet aggregation |
References
- Peck TE, Hill SA. Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care. 4th Ed. Cambridge University Press. 2014.