Diltiazem hydrochloride is a medication used for the treatment of angina, hypertension, certain types of arrhythmias, and other cardiovascular conditions. It belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers, which work by inhibiting voltage-dependent calcium channels in the smooth muscle of the heart and peripheral arteries. Diltiazem hydrochloride is available as an oral medication or in intravenous form.
Diltiazem hydrochloride is used to treat several different cardiovascular disorders. In the United States, it is the most commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of hypertension. It is also used to treat angina (chest pain), certain types of arrhythmias, and other conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels.
| Brand Name | Neocard |
|---|---|
| Type | Tablet |
| Weight | 60 mg |
| Generic | Diltiazem Hydrochloride |
| Manufacturer | Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd. |
| Available in | English বাংলা |
Diltiazem hydrochloride works by blocking voltage-dependent calcium channels in the smooth muscle of the heart and peripheral arteries. By inhibiting these channels, diltiazem hydrochloride causes the arteries to relax, allowing the heart to pump more efficiently and reducing blood pressure. In patients with angina, diltiazem hydrochloride helps reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks.
The effects of diltiazem hydrochloride can be seen soon after taking the medication. The effects of the medication can last up to 24 hours after the last dose was taken. For most people, diltiazem hydrochloride reaches its maximum effect within 3 to 6 hours after taking a single dose.
Diltiazem hydrochloride is well absorbed orally, with an absolute bioavailability greater than 70%. The peak plasma levels of diltiazem hydrochloride occur within 1.5 to 3 hours after an oral dose of the medication.
Diltiazem hydrochloride is metabolized in the liver and then excreted in the urine and feces. The oral route of administration is the most common form taken to excrete the drug.
The dosage used for diltiazem hydrochloride varies depending on the condition being treated and the patient's individual needs. For angina, the usual starting dose is 30-120 mg taken up to 3 times daily. For hypertension, the usual dose is 30-180 mg/day in one or two divided doses. For other conditions, the dosage may be different.
Diltiazem hydrochloride is typically administered by mouth as an oral tablet or capsule. It may also be given in an injectable form intravenously. It should be taken with or without food, usually once or twice a day as directed. It is important to take diltiazem hydrochloride exactly as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
Side effects of diltiazem hydrochloride may include dizziness, headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, muscle or joint pain, and rash. Women should let their doctor know if they are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Some side effects can be serious, and patients should seek medical help immediately if they experience profuse sweating, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
The therapeutic dose of diltiazem hydrochloride is usually well tolerated, however, an overdose of the medication can have serious consequences. Symptoms of an overdose may include an abnormally slow heartbeat, profound weakness, unconsciousness, and coma. In the event of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Patients should inform their health care provider of all other medications they are taking, including any over-the-counter drugs or supplements. If taking an ACE inhibitor or diuretic, the dosage of these medications may need to be adjusted to avoid dangerous drug interactions. Patients should also inform their healthcare provider of any allergies they may have to either the medication or its ingredients.
Drug interactions with diltiazem hydrochloride may include an increased risk of side effects or decreased effectiveness of either drug. Potential drug interactions to watch out for include, but are not limited to, antifungals, cholesterol medications, antibiotics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and some antidepressants. It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take before taking diltiazem hydrochloride.
Patients with certain chronic conditions may have to take extra precautions while taking diltiazem hydrochloride. Tell your doctor if any of the following conditions apply to you: diabetes, kidney or liver diseases, an electrolyte imbalance, congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, or glaucoma, as these can interact with diltiazem hydrochloride.
Drug interactions can occur if diltiazem hydrochloride is taken with certain other drugs or medications. Do not take diltiazem hydrochloride with any of the following drugs or medications: antifungals, cholesterol medications, ACE inhibitors, some antidepressants, or certain antibiotics. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking before taking diltiazem hydrochloride.
Some foods may interact with diltiazem hydrochloride and cause an increased risk of side effects or decreased effectiveness of the drug. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase the effects of the medication, as can high-fat foods. It is best to avoid these foods and drinks while taking diltiazem hydrochloride.
Diltiazem hydrochloride should be avoided during pregnancy, as it may cause harm to a developing fetus. Women should tell their doctor if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking this medication. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends avoiding the use of diltiazem hydrochloride during pregnancy.
It is not known if diltiazem hydrochloride is safe for use while breastfeeding. Women should talk to their healthcare provider before using the medication while breastfeeding, as it may not be safe for a nursing infant.
An overdose of diltiazem hydrochloride can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Symptoms of an overdose may include an abnormally slow heartbeat, profound weakness, unconsciousness, and coma. In the event of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Diltiazem hydrochloride is contraindicated for patients with certain chronic conditions. It should not be taken by patients with a known sensitivity or allergy to any of the ingredients in the drug, patients with certain heart blockages, or patients with severe hypotension. It is also not recommended to be taken with an intravenous form of calcium. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medical conditions before taking this medication.
Diltiazem hydrochloride should be taken as directed by a healthcare provider. The medication should be taken with or without food, usually once or twice daily, as prescribed by the doctor. Missing doses may cause the medication to become less effective, so make sure to take it regularly and on time.
Diltiazem hydrochloride should be stored at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Keep the medication in a safe place where it cannot be accessed by children or pets.
The volume of distribution of diltiazem hydrochloride is estimated to be 3.26 liters/kg. This means that the drug is distributed throughout the body, with a small portion remaining in the bloodstream.
The half-life of diltiazem hydrochloride is estimated to be 6-12 hours. This means that after a single dose, it takes around 6-12 hours for the level of the drug in the body to decrease to half of the original amount.
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Dr. Md. Imam Shahriar
Pain, Paralysis, Arthritis, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Specialist
Dr. Md. Afjal hossain
Cardiology (Heart Diseases, Hypertension, Rheumatic Fever) Specialist