Precautions and warnings

For elderly patients or those with liver, kidney, or heart problems (like weak left ventricular function or long AV intervals), as well as people with diabetes or low blood pressure, special care is needed. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly or use it for long periods without advice. People with sick sinus syndrome, existing AV block, slow heart rate (bradycardia), or those already taking beta-blockers or digitalis are at a higher risk for serious heart rhythm problems, such as AV block, very slow heart rate, absence of heartbeat (asystole), or sinus arrest.

Drug Interactions

Clonidine can increase the risk of heart block when taken together. This medication may raise the blood levels of statins (such as atorvastatin and lovastatin), carbamazepine, and phenytoin. It can also make the slow heart rate effects of amiodarone, digoxin, and mefloquine stronger. When used with other blood pressure medicines (like aldesleukin) or antipsychotics, it may lower blood pressure even more. Blood levels of this drug can go up if taken with cimetidine, and go down if taken with rifampicin or phenobarbital.

**Warning (Potentially Fatal):** Using the IV form with IV beta-blockers can dangerously lower blood pressure.

Contraindications

People with sick-sinus syndrome, second or third-degree AV block, or porphyria should avoid this. It is also not suitable for those with severe congestive heart failure or very slow heart rates (marked bradycardia). This should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Mode of actions

Diltiazem helps the heart by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels. It does this by blocking calcium from entering these muscles during their activity. This increases the flow of oxygen to the heart in people with certain types of chest pain (vasospastic angina). Diltiazem also slows down the heart’s electrical signals, especially through the SA and AV nodes, which helps control the heartbeat.

Dosage & Administration

Adult: PO Angina pectoris Initial: 60 mg 3 times/day, up to 480 mg/day if needed. HTN Initial: 60-120 mg twice daily. Max: 360 mg/day.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Although animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, but during pregnancy, this medicine can be used just when definitely required despite potential risks.

Mothers with a newborn baby who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may seldom create symptoms including drowsiness, muscle stiffness or shakiness, feeding or breathing troubles, constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms of your baby's particularly during their first month, tell the doctor immediately.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before breastfeeding.

Pack Size & Price