DILTIAZEM (Cardizem) Flashcards
Diltiazem (Cardizem)
Name/Class: DILTIAZEM (Cardizem)/Calcium Channel Blocker
Description: Diltiazem is a slow calcium channel blocker similar to verapamil. It dilates coronary and peripheral arteries and arterioles, thus increasing circulation to the heart and reducing peripheral vascular resistance.
Indications: Supraventricular tachydysrhythmias (atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, and PSVT refractory to adenosine) and to increase coronary artery perfusion in angina.
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, sick sinus syndrome, 2nd- or 3rd-degree heart block, systolic BP < 90, diastolic BP < 60, wide-complex tachycardia and WPW.
Precautions: CHF (especially with beta blockers), conduction abnormalities
Dosage/Route: 0.25 mg/kg IV over 2 min, may repeat as needed with 0.35 mg/kg.