Potassium channel openers. a new possible therapeutic principle in several diseases
Drottning, P.; Christensen, H.; Storstein, L.
Tidsskrift for den Norske Laegeforening Tidsskrift for Praktisk Medicin Ny Raekke 114(4): 450-453
1994
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-2001 PMID: 8009483 Document Number: 429023
Potassium channels are ion channels in the cell membrane which are especially important for regulation of the membrane potential and the cell's excitability. Potassium channel openers are drugs that interfere with these channels, and several such substances have been developed. Existing substances show highest affinity to vascular smooth muscle. The clinical effect is relaxation of blood vessels resulting in lower blood pressure. However, current efforts are concentrated on finding substances which are selective for other cell types. Possible areas of application are treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, arrhythmias, asthma and urinary bladder instability.