Pinacidil is a potent activator of potassium channel. Pinacidil is an antihypertensive agent which hyperpolarises vascular smooth muscle by opening K+-channels. Pinacidil significantly improves the reperfusion function and cardiac compliance. Pinacidil has direct cardioprotective efficacy[1].
[1]. Grover GJ, et al. Anti-ischemic effects of the potassium channel activators pinacidil and cromakalim and the reversal of these effects with the potassium channel blocker glyburide. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1989;251(1):98-104.
[2]. Hamilton TC, et al. Cromakalim, nicorandil and pinacidil: novel drugs which open potassium channels in smooth muscle. Gen Pharmacol. 1989;20(1):1-9.