Diltiazem HCL

Common use

Diltiazem HCL is used in adults alone or in combination with other medicines to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) or symptoms of angina (chest pain). Lowering blood pressure may lower your risk of a stroke or heart attack. Diltiazem HCL belongs to a class of medications called calcium-channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. Diltiazem also increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

Dosage and direction

To take Diltiazem HCL correctly, follow these steps: Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water; Do not chew or crush the capsule; Make sure not to open the capsule; It can be taken with or without food, but do remember to take it consistently either in the morning or at bedtime.

Precautions

To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had: congestive heart failure or heart problems; low blood pressure or slow heart rate; or liver disease.
It is not known whether Diltiazem HCL will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

Contraindications

You should not use Diltiazem HCL if you are allergic to it, or if you have: a serious heart condition such as "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block" (unless you have a pacemaker); very low blood pressure; if your heart cannot pump blood properly; or if you have recently had a heart attack and you have a build-up of fluid in your lungs.
You may not be able to use Diltiazem HCL if you have: heart failure; certain heart rhythm disorders (such as 'Afib' or atrial flutter with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome); a heart condition that causes you to have very fast heartbeats; or if you are receiving an intravenous beta-blocker (such as atenolol, metoprolol, or propranolol).

Possible side effect

Diltiazem HCL may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have: chest pain, fast, slow, or uneven heart rate; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; heart problems - swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath; or liver problems - loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Common Diltiazem HCL side effects may include: swelling; infections, flu symptoms; trouble breathing; headache, dizziness, weakness; slower heart rate; pain, bruising, swelling, or irritation where the medicine was injected; nausea, upset stomach; or rash.

Drug interaction

Beta-blockers: These medicines, like atenolol or metoprolol, can intensify the blood pressure-lowering effect of Diltiazem HCL, possibly leading to a severe drop in blood pressure.
Digoxin: Diltiazem HCL can increase the body's absorption of digoxin, which might necessitate close monitoring of digoxin levels in your body.
Statins: Medicines like atorvastatin or lovastatin may have their levels increased in the body when taken with Diltiazem HCL due to its inhibitory effect on the CYP3A4 enzyme pathway.

Missed dose

Take Diltiazem HCL as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include low blood pressure, slow heart rate, severe dizziness, or fainting.

Storage

Keep your Diltiazem HCL in a cool, dry place where the temperature stays below 25°C. Protect it from light and moisture to ensure it maintains its effectiveness. Ensure it is out of sight and reach of children to avoid accidental ingestion.