Description
Diltiazem HCI is prescribed to treat and sometimes prevent certain kinds of abnormal heartbeats. Some of these include an irregular and often rapid heart rate (atrial fibrillation), a rapid heartbeat in the upper chambers (atrial flutter) and a faster than normal heart rate starting above the heart’s two lower chambers (supraventricular tachycardia). Diltiazem HCI is also used in the management of heart muscle disease. Customers may receive this drug under the names Cardizem, Dilacor.
Uses
Diltiazem is primarily used for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias. It is also used in the management of heart muscle disease.
Possible Side Effects
The most commonly reported side effect is vomiting. Other side effects include low blood pressure, lethargy, slow heart rate and heart arrhythmias.
Drug & Food Interactions
Anesthetics: The depression of cardiac contractility, conductivity, and automaticity, as well as the vascular dilation associated with anesthetics, may be potentiated by calcium channel blockers. When used concomitantly, anesthetics and calcium blockers should be titrated carefully. Talk to your vet about any other drugs the pet is taking before starting this medication.
Precautions
Diltiazem is broadly absorbed by the liver and expelled by the kidneys and in bile. As with any drug that is given over extended periods, kidney and liver function should be tested at regular intervals. The drug should be used with caution in those with impaired kidney and liver function.
This drug is FDA-approved for human use. However, it is common practice for veterinarians to prescribe such drugs for use in dogs and cats.
