Diltiazem

What is Diltiazem?

Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that belongs to the class of benzothiazepines. It works by relaxing vascular smooth muscle and prolonging atrioventricular (AV) nodal conduction, resulting in decreased myocardial oxygen demand and dilated peripheral blood vessels. This medication is primarily used to treat hypertension and angina pectoris, as well as certain types of arrhythmias. Diltiazem can also be used for the prophylactic treatment of migraine headaches.

What is Diltiazem used for?

Diltiazem belongs to the class of calcium channel blockers, specifically a benzothiazepine derivative. It was first introduced in the 1970s as an intravenous agent and later approved for oral use in the United States in 1982. Diltiazem is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina pectoris (chest pain), and certain arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms).

As a calcium channel blocker, diltiazem works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cardiac muscle cells, which leads to relaxation of the vascular smooth muscles. This relaxation results in vasodilation, which decreases peripheral resistance and lowers blood pressure. Diltiazem also reduces myocardial oxygen demand, which is beneficial in treating angina pectoris.

Diltiazem’s mechanism of action and pharmacokinetic properties make it suitable for various clinical uses, including hypertension management, angina treatment, and as an anti-arrhythmic agent. The medication exists in two main forms: immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) tablets.

Diltiazem side effects

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Lightheadedness
  • Fainting
  • Flushing
  • Weakness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Tiredness
  • Swelling in feet and hands
  • Stomach upset
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Sweating
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Changes in blood counts (rare)
  • Increased risk of heart problems in people with a history of heart disease (rare)
  • Increased risk of abnormal heart rhythms, such as:
    • Arrhythmia
    • Tachycardia
    • Bradycardia
  • Rare but serious side effects may include:
    • Allergic reactions
    • Stevens-Johnson syndrome
    • Toxic epidermal necrolysis

Disclaimer

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