[In Process Citation]
OBJECTIVE: We examined the placental transfer of the calcium antagonists Flunarizine and Verapamil and their effects on the placental metabolism using the dual in vitro perfusion of the human placental lobulus. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Eight placental lobuli were perfused with either 10 micrograms/ml Flunarizine or Verapamil over 6 hours. Two perfusions without any substrate were used as control. RESULTS: The transfer of the control substances antipyrin and kreatinin was not affected by the perfusion with the calcium antagonists. Flunarizine and Verapamil crossed quickly the placental wall, but most of them were accumulated in the perfused placental tissue. Verapamil had a greater placental transfer than Flunarizine. The placental glucose consumption as well as the lactate production were not changed by both of the calcium antagonists. Flunarizine and Verapamil stimulated the placental beta HCG synthesis into the maternal circulation.