[Ranolazine--new treatment of chronic stable angina pectoris]

Abstract

Ranolazine sustained-release tablets were recently approved in the EU for chronic stable angina as add-on therapy when symptoms are not controlled with first-line agents. The mechanism of action is thought to involve inhibition of late sodium influx in the heart, which can reduce abnormalities of contractility and repolarisation associated with ischaemia. Ranolazine increases the exercise capacity, reduces angina, and diminishes the use of nitroglycerine. The drug has an excellent safety profile and may be a valuable addition to the treatment of chronic stable angina.