GD-059-PHS-EMS: Drug Profile for Diltiazem
GENERIC NAME: DILTIAZEM
BRAND NAME: Cardizem
CLASS: Calcium Channel Blocker
Calcium antagonist
Mechanism of Action:
Pharmacological: Inhibits calcium ion influx across cell membranes during
cardiac depolarization, decreases SA and AV conduction and dilates coronary and
peripheral arteries and arterioles.
Clinical effects: Slows the rapid ventricular rate associated with atrial fibrillation
and atrial flutter, and reduces coronary and peripheral vascular resistance.
Indications and Field Use:
Rapid ventricular rates associated with atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter, and for
PSVT refractory to adenosine.
Contraindications:
Hypotension (less than 90 mmHg systolic)
Acute Myocardial infarction
Cardiogenic shock
Ventricular tachycardia or wide-complex VT of unknown origin
Second or third-degree AV block
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome
Sick Sinus syndrome
Beta Blocker Use
Adverse Reactions:
CV: hypotension, bradycardia, heart block, chest pain, and asystole
GI: nausea and vomiting
CNS: headache, fatigue, drowsiness
NOTES ON ADMINISTRATION
Incompatibilities/Drug Interactions:
Avoid use in patients with poison- or drug-induced tachycardia.
Calcium chloride can be used to prevent the hypotensive effects of this drug and
treat patients with a calcium channel blocker overdose.
Beta blocker use
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