| name | Diltiazem |
| classification | Calcium Channel Blocker (specifically, a non-dihydropyridine type) |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Well absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations typically occur within 1-6 hours. | | distribution | Widely distributed throughout the body, including the heart and vascular smooth muscle. Protein binding is significant. | | metabolism | Extensively metabolized by the liver. CYP3A4 is a key enzyme involved in its metabolism. | | excretion | Primarily excreted in the urine as metabolites. Renal function may influence the clearance of the drug. |
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| suggested dosage | | note | Dosage must be individualized based on the patient's condition and response. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist. | | typical initial oral dosages for various indications | | 1 | | indication | Angina | | dosage | 30-60 mg every 6 hours, increasing as needed. |
| | 2 | | indication | Hypertension | | dosage | 60-120 mg twice daily, increasing as needed. |
| | 3 | | indication | Atrial Fibrillation | | dosage | 60-180 mg twice daily, increasing as needed. |
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| indications | | 1 | Angina pectoris | | 2 | Hypertension | | 3 | Atrial fibrillation | | 4 | Supraventricular tachycardia | | 5 | Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy |
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| safety in pregnancy | | details | Use in pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the developing fetus. Consult with your doctor. | | category | Category C. |
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| safety in breastfeeding | | details | Limited data regarding passage into breast milk is available. Consider the potential benefit versus risk to the infant. | | recommendation | Use with caution, or consider alternative medications if possible |
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| side effects | | 1 | Headache | | 2 | Dizziness | | 3 | Peripheral edema (swelling) | | 4 | Constipation | | 5 | Bradycardia (slow heart rate) | | 6 | Hypotension (low blood pressure) | | 7 | Fatigue | | 8 | Nausea | | 9 | Vomiting | | 10 | Atrioventricular block (in some cases) |
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| alternatives | | 1 | Verapamil | | 2 | Amlodipine | | 3 | Nifedipine | | 4 | Felodipine |
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| contraindications | | 1 | Severe hypotension | | 2 | Sick sinus syndrome | | 3 | Second- or third-degree atrioventricular block (without a pacemaker) | | 4 | Hypersensitivity to diltiazem or other components of the formulation. | | 5 | Severe hepatic impairment |
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| interactions | | details | Several medications interact with diltiazem, including other calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, digoxin, amiodarone, grapefruit juice, etc. Always disclose all medications to your doctor and pharmacist. | | examples | | 1 | Grapefruit juice can significantly increase diltiazem levels leading to adverse effects. | | 2 | Concurrent use with certain other calcium channel blockers may increase the risk of hypotension. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor blood pressure and heart rate carefully, especially during initial therapy. | | 2 | Adjust dosage as needed to avoid significant hypotension or bradycardia. | | 3 | Use with caution in patients with impaired hepatic or renal function. | | 4 | Carefully monitor patients with heart failure. |
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| additional informations | | drug form | Available in various forms (e.g., oral tablets, capsules, extended-release forms). | | patient specific considerations | Individualized dosage is essential to address the specific patient's needs (age, weight, specific medical conditions). | | other | Important to follow prescribed dosages and inform healthcare providers about any pre-existing conditions, medications, or allergies. |
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| patient specific considerations for age and weight 25 70kg | | note | Age and weight are general factors, but not the primary determinants for diltiazem dosage. Your individual condition and response is paramount. |
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