Medicine Name:
Diltiazem Tablet 30 mg
Description / Prescription:
Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine) used to treat:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Angina (chest pain)
- Certain heart rhythm disorders (e.g., atrial fibrillation/flutter)
Prescription status:
🔹 Prescription-only medicine (Rx)
Nature / Mechanism of Action:
- Diltiazem inhibits calcium ion influx into cardiac and smooth muscle cells.
- It reduces myocardial oxygen demand by decreasing heart rate and contractility.
- It dilates coronary and peripheral arteries, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Advantages / Therapeutic Benefits:
✅ Effective control of blood pressure
✅ Reduces frequency and severity of angina attacks
✅ Slows heart rate in certain arrhythmias
✅ Provides long-term cardiovascular protection
✅ May reduce risk of stroke and heart attack in hypertensive patients
Packaging:
- Commonly packed in blister strips or plastic bottles
- Each tablet contains 30 mg of Diltiazem hydrochloride
- Typical packs: 10’s, 14’s, or 30’s tablets per strip/blister
Storage:
📦 Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C–30°C (59°F–86°F)
🌡️ Keep in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture
🚫 Keep out of reach of children
Precautions:
⚠️ Use with caution in:
- Severe liver or kidney impairment
- Heart failure, especially if associated with reduced ejection fraction
- Bradycardia or AV block (2nd/3rd degree)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding – only if clearly needed
🚫 Avoid abrupt withdrawal – may worsen angina
🔄 Monitor blood pressure, heart rate, liver/kidney function periodically
Patient Advice / Counseling Points:
🕒 Take exactly as prescribed, preferably with food
⏱️ Do not skip or double doses
🚗 May cause dizziness or light-headedness—avoid driving if affected
🍊 Avoid grapefruit juice—can increase diltiazem levels
🩺 Regular follow-up with your doctor is important
📞 Report immediately if you experience:
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Swelling of hands/feet
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent dizziness or fatigue