A histometric study in rats of the effect of the calcium antagonist amlodipine on bone healing after tooth extraction

The purpose was to investigate whether amlodipine, a second-generation calcium antagonist used for the treatment of hypertension and angina, interferes with healing of rat alveolar bone. A progressive increase in volume density of new bone filling the socket was quantified by a histometric differential point-counting method 7-42 days after tooth extraction. The results showed a 20-30% decrease in bone volume fraction in the alveolus of amlodipine-treated animals from 7 days on, in addition to a higher (7-35%) volume fraction of connective tissue and a tendency toward an increase in the volume fraction of persisting coagulum. If confirmed in humans, the knowledge of a deleterious effect of Ca-channel blockers in hindering alveolar bone healing would be important in planning oral operations involving bone tissue, including those for device implantation. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.