Vascular and metabolic properties of manidipine

Abstract

The combination of renin-angiotensin system blockers with calcium channel blockers appears to be one of the most effective options for treating hypertension and diabetes. Nevertheless, not all calcium blockers behave in the same manner. Manidipine, unlike other third-generation dihydropyridine derived drugs, blocks T-type calcium channels present in the efferent glomerular arterioles, reducing intraglomerular pressure and microalbuminuria. In addition, T-type channels are related to proliferation, inflammation, fibrosis, vasoconstriction and activation of the renin-angiotensin system. The inhibition of these factors could explain the non-haemodynamic effects of manidipine as compared to other blockers.