Isradipine, a calcium antagonist of the dihydropyridine type, shows antiatherosclerotic actions that interfere with all three main mechanisms of atherosclerosis. These actions are mediated by the release of prostaglandin I2 and endothelium-derived relaxing factor, and the subsequent elevation of intracellular adenosine-3',5'-cyclic phosphate and 3',5'-guanosine monophosphate, respectively. These mechanisms have been proven in vitro and in animal models. Preliminary data in humans suggest that these mechanisms have clinical relevance in the long-term treatment of patients as well.