What is Diltiazem-verapamil?
Calcium Channel Blocker combination of Diltiazem and Verapamil. It works by inhibiting the entry of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cells, thereby reducing heart rate, contractility, and peripheral resistance. This leads to vasodilation and a decrease in myocardial oxygen demand, making it effective for the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, and supraventricular tachycardia.
What is Diltiazem-verapamil used for?
Diltiazem-verapamil is a combination medication that contains two calcium channel blockers, diltiazem and verapamil. Calcium channel blockers are a class of medications used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina (chest pain). This combination product is designed to provide additive effects in treating these conditions.
Mechanism of Action
The mechanism of action for diltiazem-verapamil involves the inhibition of the L-type calcium channels on cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cells. By blocking these channels, the medication reduces the influx of calcium ions into the cell, which leads to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and reduced heart rate. This decrease in afterload and decreased myocardial contractility helps to alleviate symptoms of angina and lower blood pressure.
Clinical Uses
Diltiazem-verapamil is used primarily for the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle). The medication may also be used in patients with supraventricular tachycardia (abnormally fast heart rate) and hypertension associated with conditions such as coronary artery disease. As a combination product, diltiazem-verapamil offers an alternative for patients who require multiple medications for these conditions.
Dosage and Administration
The recommended dosage of diltiazem-verapamil varies depending on the specific indication and patient factors such as age and renal function. In general, the medication is initiated at a low dose with gradual titration to achieve optimal therapeutic effect while minimizing side effects.
Important Considerations
As with any calcium channel blocker combination product, patients taking diltiazem-verapamil should be aware of potential interactions with other medications such as beta-blockers and digoxin. Regular monitoring of renal function, complete blood counts, and liver enzymes is also recommended to minimize risks associated with this medication.
Diltiazem-verapamil side effects
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Flushing
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Constipation
- Muscle pain
- Back pain
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the hands and feet (edema)
- Increased sweating
- Dizziness when standing up
- Chest pain or discomfort
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
Disclaimer
The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information provided here is based on general research and may not apply to individual circumstances. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any content on this website. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication or health routine.