Oestrogen as a calcium channel blocker.
This paper reviews the evidence for calcium-antagonist properties of oestrogen which may offer long-term protective effects on the cardiovascular system in postmenopausal women. Oestrogen has already been shown to have a beneficial effect on cholesterol metabolism and deposition, thereby inhibiting the formation of atherosclerotic plaque and coronary atheroma. Calcium antagonism, resulting in both acute and chronic modulation of coronary and peripheral vasomotion, is another mechanism by which oestrogens may provide cardiovascular benefits to women, including those with existing cardiovascular disease.
Collins
P
P
Department of Cardiac Medicine, National Heart and Lung Institute, London, U.K.
Beale
C M
CM
Rosano
G M
GM
D000818:Animals; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D015914:Estrogen Replacement Therapy; D004967:Estrogens / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009126:Muscle Relaxation / Q000502:physiology; D009131:Muscle, Smooth, Vascular / Q000187:drug effects
D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers; D004967:Estrogens