Angina pectoris is a medical term that describes the pain or discomfort in the chest caused by coronary heart disease. Angina pectoris develops when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen and nutrients. When one or more of the heart's arteries become restricted or blocked, a condition known as ischemia occurs. Angina pectoris is characterized by a painful pressure, fullness, squeezing, or discomfort in the center of the chest. Stable angina pectoris is a risk factor for emotional stress, very hot or cold weather, big meals, and smoking. An ECG and angiography can be used to diagnose angina pectoris, which can subsequently be treated with medication, a lifestyle modification, or surgery. Angina pectoris can also be treated with angioplasty, which is a less invasive procedure. The pain or discomfort caused by angina pectoris is treated with rest and nitroglycerin. Nitroglycerin relaxes the coronary arteries and other blood vessels by increasing blood flow to the heart vessels.
Espero reported in June 2016 that it has acquired FDA clearance for GoNitro (nitroglycerin) sublingual powder for immediate treatment of angina pectoris or prevention of angina pectoris related to coronary artery disease. AstraZeneca sold the rights to its two medications, Plendil and Imdur, for $500 million in February 2016. China Medical System Holdings (CMS) agreed to pay AstraZeneca $310 million for Plendil (felodipine) commercialization rights in China. Plendil is a calcium antagonist that is used to treat hypertension as well as to prevent chronic stable angina pectoris. Imdur, on the other hand, is an oral extended-release formulation of isosorbide mononitrate that is recommended for the prevention of angina pectoris caused by coronary artery disease.
Factors such as the rising number of partnerships, new launches, and mergers and acquisitions are driving the angina pectoris therapy market. For example, in 2017, Recordati purchased AstraZeneca's blood pressure brand Metoprolol, a beta-blocker used mostly for diseases such as angina pectoris, hypertension, and cardiac problems. Furthermore, Lupin Pharmaceuticals got FDA clearance in 2017 to market the generic version of WorldMeds' nadolol medication, which is recommended for patients with angina pectoris and the treatment of hypertension.