(+/-)-BAY K 8644

Synthetic dihydropyridine derivative that acts as an active Ca²⁺ slow channel agonist in neuroendocrine, muscle, thyroid and other cell types. Prolongs single channel open time without affecting the close time. An L-type Ca²⁺ channel agonist. Composed of two optical isomers. The (-)-enantiomer has strong vasoconstrictive, positive inotropic, and Ca²⁺ agonistic properties, whereas the (+)-enantiomer has weakly vasodilating, negative inotropic, and Ca²⁺ antagonistic properties. The net effect of the racemic mix is that of the negative enantiomer. Promotes β-cell proliferation/regeneration.

Primary TargetL-type Ca2+ channel