Calcium channel blockers cannot prevent pure vasospastic myocardial infarction

Abstract

Summary: Coronary artery spasm is a recognized cause of myocardial infarction. This report describes a case of myocardial infarction attributed to pure coronary spasm which was halted by a double perfusion with streptokinase and nitroglycerin. Further coronary artery spasm leading to a myocardial infarction could not be avoided several weeks later, although the patient was left on calcium channel blocker therapy. The two attacks were not preceded by warning angina pectoris, contrary to accepted belief. The best objective of end-point drug therapy and its assessment in vasospastic angina are discussed.