Barnidipine is a new calcium channel blocker of the dihydropyridine group. It is considered a representative of the so-called third generation of this group. Calcium channel blockers of the third generation are characterized by a greater selectivity in the sense of vasodilatation whereby the effect of the contractility of the heart muscle and conduction system is negligible. Other advantages are a slow onset of action which does not activate the symapthetic system. The biological availability is low. The plasma levels are, however, stable and the effect is thus predictable.

        Key words: calcium channel blocker - dihydropyridine - barnidipine - treatment