Do papaverine solutions cause loss of viability of endothelial cells?
Loss of viability was shown in cultured saphenous vein endothelial cells exposed to saline solutions containing papaverine, whereas no difference was found between culture medium, saline and balanced salt solutions. Cell death was directly related to the length of exposure of the cells to papaverine. Further, after short- and long-term recovery periods, there was little recovery of cell viability. Although papaverine is a potent vasodilator, exposure to this compound may compromise long-term viability of graft endothelial cells.
Relaxation may be a useful adjunct to traditional antireflux therapy in patients who experience increased symptoms during stress.