Diltiazem Hydrochloride

Generic Name: diltiazem hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Diltiazem Hydrochloride

Diltiazem hydrochloride is a calcium ion cellular influx inhibitor (slow channel blocker or calcium antagonist) used as an antihypertensive and antianginal medication.

Overview

Diltiazem hydrochloride is a calcium ion cellular influx inhibitor (slow channel blocker or calcium antagonist) used as an antihypertensive and antianginal medication.

Uses

Treatment of hypertension, alone or with other antihypertensive medications. Management of chronic stable angina and angina due to coronary artery spasm.

Dosage

Starting doses: 180-240 mg once daily for hypertension; 120-180 mg once daily for angina. Adjust based on patient response. Maximum studied dose 540 mg daily.

Side Effects

Most common: headache (5.4%), dizziness (3.0%), bradycardia (3.3%), first-degree AV block (3.3%), edema (2.6%). Serious adverse reactions rare but include congestive heart failure, syncope, and cardiac conduction abnormalities.

Interactions

Additive cardiac effects with beta-blockers and digitalis. Increases benzodiazepine exposure 3-4 fold. Cimetidine increases diltiazem 58%. Statins risk elevation; limit simvastatin to 10 mg with diltiazem.

Warnings

Cardiac conduction prolongation may result in abnormally slow heart rates or AV block. Worsening congestive heart failure possible in patients with ventricular dysfunction. Symptomatic hypotension may occur. Acute hepatic injury reported. Contraindicated in sick sinus syndrome without pacemaker, second/third-degree AV block without pacemaker, hypotension below 90 mm Hg systolic, and acute MI with pulmonary congestion.

Pregnancy

No well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal studies show embryo/fetal lethality at doses 5-10x human therapeutic dose. Diltiazem excreted in breast milk.

Storage

Store at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F). Avoid excessive humidity. Keep out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Diltiazem Hydrochloride used for?

Treatment of hypertension, alone or with other antihypertensive medications. Management of chronic stable angina and angina due to coronary artery spasm.

What are the side effects of Diltiazem Hydrochloride?

Most common: headache (5.4%), dizziness (3.0%), bradycardia (3.3%), first-degree AV block (3.3%), edema (2.6%). Serious adverse reactions rare but include congestive heart failure, syncope, and cardiac conduction abnormalities.

Can I take Diltiazem Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

No well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal studies show embryo/fetal lethality at doses 5-10x human therapeutic dose. Diltiazem excreted in breast milk.

What are the important warnings for Diltiazem Hydrochloride?

Cardiac conduction prolongation may result in abnormally slow heart rates or AV block. Worsening congestive heart failure possible in patients with ventricular dysfunction. Symptomatic hypotension may occur. Acute hepatic injury reported. Contraindicated in sick sinus syndrome without pacemaker, second/third-degree AV block without pacemaker, hypotension below 90 mm Hg systolic, and acute MI with pulmonary congestion.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.