Ivabradine is a selective and specific If channel inhibitor with proven antianginal and anti-ischemic properties, but without effects on blood pressure, myocardial contractility, and atrioventricular (AV) node conduction. These advantages place ivabradine in a unique position to reduce heart rate in unstable patients. Contraindications to the use of β-blockers in patients with acute MI represent additional potential indications for ivabradine. Moreover, ivabradine improves myocardial stunning following ischemia better than β-blockade. Ivabradine may also be helpful in patients with residual angina or ischemia in whom β-blockers should be avoided and in those not tolerating them well. In the longer-term follow-up, evidence suggests that reducing heart rate could prevent progression of atherosclerosis and plaque rupture. Ivabradine may therefore become very helpful in the management of patients after myocardial infarction...