What is Diltiazem?

Diltiazem belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. These drugs work by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart. It comes in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and intravenous (IV) formulations.


What is the Drug Diltiazem used for?

Diltiazem Oral is used in adults to treat

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Symptoms of chest pain (angina)

Diltiazem Injection(IV) is used in adults to treat Heart rhythm disorders such as

  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Atrial flutter
  • Rapid heartbeats (tachycardia)

However, sometimes it might be prescribed for other conditions or off-label uses like prevention of migraine headaches. It is always better to follow your doctor's advice regarding any medication.

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How to use diltiazem oral?

  • Follow the doctor's instructions for dosage and frequency.
  • The dosage depends on the medical condition and response to treatment.
  • Inform the doctor of all medications you are taking.
  • Take Diltiazem orally before meals and at bedtime, 3 to 4 times a day.
  • Swallow tablets whole; do not split, crush, or chew.
  • Use regularly for maximum effectiveness.
  • Do not use to treat angina when it occurs; use other medications (such as nitroglycerin sublingual) as directed.
  • Report worsening condition to your doctor.

What are the side effects of Diltiazem?

Before taking Diltiazem, it's crucial to be aware of potential side effects.

Serious Side Effects of Diltiazem:

These complications require immediate doctor attention and may lead to other complications if left untreated

  • Chest pain
  • Fast, slow, or uneven heart rate
  • Feeling light-headed
  • Heart problems: body swelling, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath
  • Liver problems: loss of appetite, right side stomach pain, tiredness, itching, dark urine, jaundice.

Common Diltiazem Side Effects:

  • Headache, dizziness, weakness
  • Pain, bruising, swelling, or irritation at the injection site
  • Nausea, upset stomach
  • Edema
  • Constipation

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of Diltiazem, particularly dizziness, constipation, or swelling of the ankles or feet.

This list does not include all potential side effects. Side effects can vary from person to person, so consult your doctor immediately if you feel uneasy after taking any medication.


What are the Precautions before using Diltiazem?

It is advisable to disclose specific details to your doctor to ensure appropriate medication prescription.

  • All medicines you are using.
  • Any allergic reactions
  • Existing health conditions, such as heart rhythm problems (such as sick sinus/atrioventricular block), liver disease, kidney disease, heart failure.
  • Avoid Alcohol consumption

Ask for guidance on the safe use of any medicines, especially:


Interactions

  • Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor's recommendation.
  • Some products that may interact with Diltiazem include digoxin and fingolimod.
  • Other medications can affect the removal of Diltiazem from your body, potentially impacting its effectiveness and vice versa.
  • Examples include cimetidine, azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), and rifamycin (e.g., rifabutin, rifampin).

Diltiazem vs Digoxin

Diltiazem Digoxin
Diltiazem is sold under the brand name Cardizem Digoxin is sold under the brand name Lanoxin
Formula: C22H26N2O4S Formula: C41H64O14
Diltiazem is used to prevent pain in the chest (angina). It may help to increase your ability to exercise and decrease how often angina attacks may occur. Digoxin is a medication used in the treatment of various heart conditions.
Drug class: nondihydropyridine calcium channel blocker Digoxin belongs to the class of medicines that is called digitalis glycosides.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Adults—At first, 180 to 240 milligrams (mg) once a day, in the morning or at bedtime. Your doctor might adjust your dose if necessary. For Children Use and dose should be determined by your doctor only.

Long-term use of diltiazem can potentially impact kidney function indirectly by affecting heart and artery function.

Diltiazem doesn't commonly cause sleep disturbance.

Diltiazem controls high blood pressure and pain in the chest (angina) but does not cure it. It can take up to 2 weeks before you feel the full benefit of Diltiazem.

Yes, the usage of the drug may lead to blurred vision

Yes, diltiazem is generally safe for long-term use when prescribed by a doctor. Regular monitoring is important to manage potential side effects.

Diltiazem may minimally elevate blood sugar levels in some individuals, but significant effects are rare. Monitoring blood sugar is advisable, especially for those with diabetes or predisposition.

Diltiazem isn't likely to cause heart failure, but it can make symptoms worse in rare cases. If you have heart failure, use diltiazem carefully and stay in touch with your doctor.

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