Nicardipine and propranolol in angina pectoris: a comparative study with special reference to ergometer working capacity tests

1 Patients with stable angina pectoris were studied in a double-blind crossover trial, comparing the effects of nicardipine (30 mg three times daily) and propranolol (40 mg three times daily) on exercise duration, exercise time without angina, time to 1 mm ST depression, rating of perceived exertion, and systolic blood pressure. 2 Patients underwent bicycle ergometer exercise testing on placebo and before and after each of the treatment periods. 3 There were no significant differences between treatments regarding any of the studied parameters. 4 The ST segment depression/rate pressure product (RPP) ratio was greater after propranolol than nicardipine, suggesting greater efficiency of the heart on nicardipine. 5 The exertion/RPP ratio was lower on nicardipine indicating greater perceived exercise ability.