Diltiazem

Diltiazem is a medication in the calcium-channel blocker class used to treat hypertension and angina (chest pain). It is a prescription drug that should be taken only on a doctor's advice and prescription.

Diltiazem is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat hypertension and prevent symptoms of angina pectoris (chest pain). By lowering blood pressure, it can help reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack. Additionally, diltiazem is used to manage heart conditions such as arrhythmias and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia.

Diltiazem works by dilating blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and eases the heart's workload in pumping blood. This results in improved blood flow throughout the body, enhancing the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Diltiazem may also be used for other conditions as recommended by a doctor.

Diltiazem is available in the form of conventional tablets, extended-release tablets, extended-release capsules, and injections. It can be taken with or without food. Do not divide, chew, or crush the tablets or capsules; swallow the medication whole with a glass of water. Try to take diltiazem at the same time every day. The dosage of diltiazem prescribed by your doctor may vary based on your medical condition and your response to the medication.

The injectable form of diltiazem should only be administered by healthcare professionals under the supervision of a doctor.

Follow the medication instructions carefully as directed by your doctor on the prescription label. If you find the instructions unclear, ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete explanation. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

You should continue to take diltiazem regularly, even if you feel better. Take diltiazem until the entire prescribed course is finished. Avoid stopping diltiazem abruptly without your doctor's approval. If your symptoms do not improve while taking diltiazem, inform your doctor.

If you forget to take your medication, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the  time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal schedule. Do not double the dose under any circumstances.

Before consuming diltiazem, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any of the following conditions.

• A history of allergies to diltiazem or similar medications.

• A history of cardiovascular disorders, such as acute myocardial infarction with pulmonary congestion on X-ray, atrial fibrillation (a disorder of the heart's atrium), second or third-degree heart block, ventricular tachycardia, and sick sinus syndrome (a disorder of the heart's rhythm regulator).

• A history of cardiogenic shock.

• A history of symptomatic hypotension.

Diltiazem may cause certain side effects. Consult your doctor for medical advice on persisting side effects. 

• Disorders of the nervous system: Headache and dizziness.

• Injection site conditions: Pain, itching, burning sensation, swelling, or a lump under the skin at the injection site.

Some side effects caused by diltiazem may need immediate medical help. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately. 

• Allergic reactions: Rash and itching on the skin, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, and swelling (especially in the face, tongue, or throat).

• Disorders of the skin: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, characterized by a rash with peeling skin, blisters, or redness.

• Cardiovascular disorders: Rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeat, chest pain, hypotension (low blood pressure), and symptoms of edema (fluid retention), such as rapid weight gain and swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet.

• Liver function disorders: Loss of appetite, abdominal pain (in the upper right side), fatigue, dark urine or pale stools, and yellowing of the eyes or skin.

Additionally, this medication can cause your blood pressure to drop suddenly when getting up from a sitting or lying down position, leading to dizziness. To minimize these symptoms, rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.

If you notice other side effects that do not improve with this medication, please contact your doctor immediately.

Some medicines can affect how diltiazem works. Inform your doctor if you are using any of the following: 

• Drugs for gastrointestinal system disorders: Cisapride.

• Drugs for eye disorders: Betaxolol and timolol.

• Antibiotics: Erythromycin and clarithromycin.

• Analgesics: Fentanyl, buprenorphine, morphine, codeine, and alfentanil.

• Cholesterol drugs: Lovastatin, simvastatin, and atorvastatin.

• Cancer therapy: Apalutamide, enzalutamide, and lorlatinib.

• Blood thinners: Clopidogrel.

This list does not include every drug that may interact with diltiazem. Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking other medicines, including herbal tonics, such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and other non-prescription medicines. 

Besides medicines, some foods can also affect how diltiazem works. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking diltiazem. Additionally, refrain from excessive consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice (more than 1 liter per day).