EFFECTS OF LONG-ACTING NITRATES ON PLATELET-AGGREGATION AND PROSTAGLANDIN PRODUCTION

Platelet aggregation and prostaglandin levels were examined in 50 patients with coronary heart disease concurrent with Functional Classes II-III angina who received nitroglycerine-retard (n=20; Group 1), corovas (n=20; Group 2), and placebo (n=10; Group 3). Long-actin nitrates were found to exert a positive action on thrombocytic hemostasis as decreased platelet aggregation and reverse aggregation in 25 % of the corovas-treated patients. Placebo failed to have the same action. Nitroglycerine-retard caused an increase in prostacycline concentrations, Nitroglycerine-retard and corovas produced a clear-cut antianginal effect. They promoted the reduction in the number of anginal episodes and of nitroglycerine tablets used. No antianginal effect was absent when placebo was used.