Diltiazem Injection

(Diltiazem Hydrochloride)

The active ingredient in Diltiazem injection is diltiazem hydrochloride. Its pharmacology affects the movement of calcium ions, thereby inhibiting muscle contraction and allowing for the blood vessels to relax.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Diltiazem Injection. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Diltiazem Injection:

• The IV administration of diltiazem should be done by a healthcare professional. The initial bolus dose given will be 0.25 mg/kg over 2 minutes. Then, if the response is inadequate, a second dose of 0.35 mg/kg over 2 minutes, 15 minutes after the initial dose.
• It is vital to monitor blood pressure and ECG when giving this medication.

The most common side effects of Diltiazem injection seen in clinical trials include:

• Injection site reaction
• Flushing (vasodilation)
• Nausea
• Swelling in your legs and feet
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Constipation

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Diltiazem Injection. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Worsening heart failure
• Heart rhythm changes: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, a slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Hepatic damage: dark urine, and yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Severe allergic reaction or skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome, or toxic epidermal necrolysis: hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face, tongue, or throat, blistering or peeling skin, chills, diarrhea, cough, joint or muscle pain, irritated eyes, and red skin lesions, often with a purple center

These are not all of the possible side effects of Diltiazem injection. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Diltiazem injection, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Cardiovascular conditions, including sick sinus syndrome or AV block (unless you have a pacemaker)
• Known allergy to this medication
• Liver problem
• Renal disease
• Low blood pressure
• Heart disease, including congestive heart failure, heart attack, or cardiogenic shock
• Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), including ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation

• Sick sinus syndrome or an AV block
• Known allergy to diltiazem, any of its inactive ingredients, or benzothiazepine derivatives
• Severe hypotension or cardiogenic shock
• Concomitant IV beta-blockers
• Atrial fibrillation or flutter associated with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome or short PR syndrome
• Ventricular tachycardia

For an IV injection of diltiazem, effects typically begin within 2 to 5 minutes, with the maximum effect occurring shortly after.

When Diltiazem injection is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Amiodarone
• Benzodiazepines
• Digoxin
• Atazanavir
• Cimetidine
• Quinidine
• St. John's wort
• CYP3A4 inducers
• CYP3A4 inhibitors
• Verapamil
• Rifampin
• Buspirone
• Cyclosporine
• Sirolimus
• Clonidine
• Ivabradine
• Cholesterol-lowering medications, including lovastatin and simvastatin
• Midazolam
• Triazolam
• Carbamazepine
• Anti-hypertensives, including beta-blockers such as propranolol

The diltiazem hydrochloride injection is available in a vial that contains 5 mg/mL.

The Diltiazem injection should be refrigerated until usage. However, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 month. Ensure it’s stored away from the reach of pediatric kids.

The manufacturer of Diltiazem injection is Bausch Health Companies Inc.

Diltiazem injection is the generic for the brand-name Cardizem.

Before stopping this medication, consult your healthcare provider.

There are no well-controlled studies of Diltiazem Injection in pregnant women. Therefore, it should only be used if the possible benefit justifies the possible risk to the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Diltiazem is passed into breast milk in small amounts, and its use is generally not recommended during lactation. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.