PURPOSE: Ranolazine is a novel antianginal medication that acts by ameliorating 
disturbed sodium and calcium homeostasis. By preventing myocyte sodium and 
calcium overload, ranolazine also have potential beneficial effects on 
myocardial function. Experimental models support this concept, as do 2 small 
studies in human participants receiving ranolazine intravenously. We evaluated 
changes in parameters of left ventricular function in stable angina patients 
treated with oral ranolazine.
METHODS: Twenty-two participants were enrolled with Doppler echocardiography 
performed at baseline and a mean of 2 months after initiation of treatment.
RESULTS: Global left ventricular function, as assessed by the myocardial 
performance index, was significantly improved on drug therapy (P < .0001). This 
was due to improvement in both diastolic and systolic parameters. Of 21 
patients, 17 reported less angina and 8 patients reported an increase in 
activity level.
CONCLUSIONS: We report improved parameters of left ventricular function in 
response to ranolazine as used in the clinical setting.