Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Definition of Angina, Prinzmetal
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Angina, Prinzmetal: Chest pain due to a coronary artery spasm, a sudden constriction of one of the vessels that supply the heart muscle with blood rich in oxygen. This deprives the heart muscle of blood and oxygen. Coronary artery spasm can be triggered by emotional stress, medicines, street drugs (cocaine) or exposure to cold. Treatments include beta-blocker medications and, classically, nitroglycerin to open up the coronary arteries.
Named for the American cardiologist, Myron Prinzmetal (1908-87).