Nicorandil, a potassium channel agonist known to be effective in patients with chronic stable angina pectoris, has now been shown to have additional cardioprotective qualities. In the IONA*study, presented at the Scientific Sessions of the American Heart Association [Anaheim, US; November 2001], nicorandil significantly reduced the incidence of major coronary events and all cardiovascular events in patients with chronic stable angina.'The IONA trial demonstrates that nicorandil improves outcome in patients with chronic stable angina, adding credence to its value in clinical outcome',said Professor Henry Dargie from the University of Glasgow, UK, who presented the data.'This landmark study is the first demonstration in major coronary events by a specific antianginal medication in a trial large enough to address outcomes'.