Synergistic effect of nicorandil and amlodipine on mitochondrial function during isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats

The synergistic effects of nicorandil (KATP‐channel opener) and amlodipine (calcium‐channel blocker) on heart mitochondrial enzymes and the mitochondrial antioxidant defence system was examined on isoproterenol‐induced myocardial infarction in rats. The rats given isoproterenol (150 mg kg−1 daily, i.p.) for two days showed significant changes in marker enzymes, mitochondrial enzymes and the mitochondrial defence system. Pre‐co‐treatment with nicorandil (2.5 mg kg−1 daily, p.o.) and amlodipine (5.0 mg kg−1 daily, p.o.) for 3 days significantly prevented these alterations and restored enzyme activity to near normal. These f ndings demonstrate the protective and synergistic effect of nicorandil and amlodipine in combination against isoproterenol‐induced cardiac damage.