Diltiazem

What is it?

Composition

Diltiazem includes the active substance diltiazem hydrochloride, which determines the pharmacological properties of the drug. Depending on the form of release, additional auxiliary components may be present that ensure stability and proper release of the active substance.

• Active substance: diltiazem hydrochloride
• Excipients: may include magnesium stearate, lactose, silicon dioxide, starch, talc and other components depending on the specific dosage form
• Tablet shell: consists of components such as hypromellose, titanium dioxide, macrogol, which help protect the active substance and ease of administration

The composition may also contain dyes and preservatives that ensure the appearance and long-term storage of the drug.

How to use?

The correct use of Diltiazem depends on the dosage form and indications. Usually the drug is taken orally with a sufficient amount of water. It is important to follow the doctors recommendations and the instructions for the drug to ensure maximum effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.

1. Immediate-release tablets are taken 3-4 times a day, preferably at the same time. The dosage is selected individually by the doctor and can be adjusted depending on the bodys response to treatment.
2. Extended-release tablets and capsules are usually taken 1-2 times a day. These forms of the drug provide a gradual release of diltiazem, which allows you to maintain a stable level of the substance in the blood throughout the day.
3. Do not chew or crush extended-release tablets or capsules. This may disrupt the controlled release mechanism and lead to excessive concentrations of the drug in the blood.

It is important not to miss doses of the drug. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, but do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose. Completion of the course of treatment should also be done under the supervision of a doctor to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

How does it work?

Diltiazem acts as a calcium channel blocker, which means it prevents calcium ions from entering the cells of the heart muscle and vascular smooth muscle. Calcium plays a key role in muscle contraction, including the heart and vascular walls. When diltiazem blocks this process, muscle tissue relaxes, which leads to several important effects.

First, relaxing the arteries reduces total peripheral resistance, which helps reduce blood pressure. This makes it easier for the heart to work, reducing its load and improving blood supply. Second, slowing the heart rate and reducing the force of heart contractions reduces the hearts need for oxygen, which is especially important for preventing angina attacks. Thus, Diltiazem not only reduces blood pressure, but also improves the functioning of the cardiovascular system as a whole, making it an effective treatment for various cardiovascular diseases.

Indications

Diltiazem is prescribed for various cardiovascular diseases when it is necessary to control blood pressure, improve blood supply to the heart and normalize heart rhythm. The drug effectively copes with symptoms associated with insufficient blood flow and increased load on the heart.

• Hypertension - Diltiazem helps lower high blood pressure, reducing the risk of complications such as stroke or heart attack.
• Angina - The drug is used to prevent and treat angina attacks by improving blood supply to the heart muscle and reducing the hearts need for oxygen.
• Arrhythmias - Diltiazem is prescribed to treat certain types of arrhythmias, such as supraventricular tachycardia, to normalize the heart rhythm.

These indications make Diltiazem an important component of therapy for patients with chronic cardiovascular disease who require a comprehensive approach to treatment.

Contraindications

The use of Diltiazem is limited in the presence of certain conditions and diseases that may increase the risk of side effects or worsen the patients condition. Before starting therapy, it is important to consider possible contraindications and discuss them with your doctor.

• Hypotension - if the patient already has low blood pressure, using Diltiazem may cause it to drop dangerously.
• Sick sinus syndrome and severe bradycardia - the drug may slow the heart rate, which is dangerous in these conditions.
• Severe heart failure - Diltiazem may worsen symptoms in patients with decompensated heart failure.
• Second or third degree atrioventricular block (without a pacemaker) - the drug may disrupt the conduction of impulses in the heart, which requires caution.
• Hypersensitivity to diltiazem or any of the excipients - allergic reactions are possible.

Diltiazem should also be used with caution in elderly patients and people with liver or kidney disease, as this may require dosage adjustments or additional monitoring measures.

Side effects

Diltiazem may cause side effects, although most patients tolerate the drug well. The frequency and intensity of adverse reactions may vary depending on the individual characteristics of the body, dosage and duration of treatment.

• Dizziness and headache are the most common effects, which usually disappear as the body adapts to the drug.
• Feeling tired or weak - may occur at the beginning of treatment, but in most cases these symptoms disappear after a while.
• Constipation or stomach upset - may be observed in some patients, especially with prolonged use.
• Swelling of the legs or feet - possible due to vasodilation and fluid retention in the body.
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia) - more common in patients predisposed to such conditions or in case of drug overdose.

If side effects become severe or interfere with daily life, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust the dosage or replace the drug with another one.