Cleviprex mechanism of action?

What is Cleviprex, and how does it work?

Cleviprex is an intravenous (IV) antihypertensive used to rapidly lower blood pressure. It works by providing a fast, short-acting vasodilatory effect that reduces systemic vascular resistance, which lowers blood pressure [1].

What is the mechanism of action at the molecular level?

Cleviprex is an ultra–short-acting calcium channel blocker. It inhibits the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle cells through L-type calcium channels, which leads to vasodilation and a reduction in blood pressure [1].

Why does it lower blood pressure so quickly?

Because Cleviprex is metabolized very rapidly by the body (via an esterases-dependent process), its pharmacologic effect is brief. This short duration allows titration to effect during IV infusion [1].

What physiologic effects should clinicians expect from its MOA?

By blocking L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, it decreases arterial tone (vasodilation), reducing systemic vascular resistance and therefore blood pressure [1].