Effects of Sustained Isometric Handgrip on Ventricular Systolic Time Intervals in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease

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Abstract
The response of 2 groups of patients treated for a 4 wk period with perhexiline maleate was examined. This new drug is chiefly used as anti-anginal drug, but it also has anti-arrhythmic properties. The response of the left ventricle to isometric handgrip exercise in class I or II NYHA [New York Heart Association] patients following perhexiline maleate treatment is almost normal, thus confirming that the drug has no side effects of cardiodynamics checked by the left ventricular systolic time intervals. Responses of class III or IV NYHA patients after perhexiline maleate become normal, illustrating that the drug acts by removing the contractile dysfunction. This probably takes place following elimination of the ischemia induced dyssynergic areas. The effect of this drug was evaluated from a clinical point of view. A marked decrease in frequency of anginal crises and consequential reduction in consumption of trinitroglycerin pills during perhexiline maleate treatment could be observed.