Comparison of the antiatherogenic effects of isradipine and ramipril in cholesterol-fed rabbits:II. Effect on regression of atherosclerosis and restoration of endothelial function

We report the effects of isradipine and ramipril on regression of diet-induced atherosclerosis in rabbits. Regression of diet-induced atherosclerosis was not significantly affected by ramipril, but isradipine significantly retarded regression. Thirty rabbits in three groups were fed a 0.3% cholesterol diet for 4 weeks. After this induction period, group IIr received the 0.3% cholesterol diet, group IIIr received the 0.3% cholesterol diet with isradipine (0.33 mg/kg/day), and group IVr received the 0.3% cholesterol diet with ramipril (0.33 mg/kg/day) for 12 more weeks. The rabbits then received a standard diet and remained on their respective drug regimen for 12 more weeks. Group Ir (10 rabbits) received a standard diet for 28 weeks