For a patient with Prinzmetal angina, which management option is appropriate?

Prinzmetal angina, also known as variant angina, is characterized by episodes of chest pain due to transient coronary artery vasospasm. The management of this condition focuses on relieving the vasospasm and preventing future episodes.

Taking nitroglycerin prior to physical activity is effective for patients with Prinzmetal angina. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator that works by relaxing smooth muscle in the blood vessels, thereby improving blood flow to the heart. Administering it before activities that may provoke angina helps to prevent the onset of symptoms by counteracting the effects of vasospasm. This proactive approach is critical for managing episodes of variant angina effectively.

In contrast, while β-blockers are traditionally used to manage other forms of angina, they may not be effective in treating Prinzmetal angina because they can exacerbate vasospasm in some patients. Additionally, stating that nitroglycerin is not beneficial is incorrect, as it is a cornerstone of treatment for acute episodes and prophylaxis. The efficacy of felodipine versus verapamil also requires careful consideration; both are effective calcium channel blockers used in the management of vasospastic angina, but the choice between them depends on individual patient response and