Bimakalim: A promising K(ATP) channel activating agent

Abstract

This review focuses on selected aspects of the pharmacology of bimakalim, including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, mode of action, and hemodynamic and electrophysiological effects in animal preparations, human tissue, and normal volunteers. This review emphasizes cardioprotective action of bimakalim, its mechanism of action, and the therapeutic potential. Data are pointing toward an intracellular site of action of bimakalim, probably at the mito-K(ATP).