Dihidropiridínicos

Dihidropiridínicos is a class of organic compounds that are characterized by a partially hydrogenated pyridine ring. The core structure consists of a six-membered ring containing five carbon atoms and one nitrogen atom, with two double bonds and two hydrogen atoms added to one of the carbon atoms, saturating it. This partial saturation distinguishes them from fully aromatic pyridines and fully saturated piperidines.

The dihydropyridine moiety is a key structural feature found in various biologically active molecules. Notably, many dihydropyridine derivatives are known for their potent pharmacological properties, particularly as calcium channel blockers. These drugs are widely used in the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris. They work by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into smooth muscle cells and cardiac muscle cells, leading to vasodilation and reduced cardiac workload.

Examples of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers include nifedipine, amlodipine, and felodipine. The specific arrangement of substituents on the dihydropyridine ring influences their pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, including their potency, duration of action, and selectivity for different types of calcium channels. Beyond their therapeutic applications, dihydropyridines also serve as important intermediates in organic synthesis, allowing for the construction of more complex molecular architectures.