Diltiazem (Cardizem) Flashcards
1
Q
Classification
A
Calcium Channel Blocker
2
Q
Mechanism of Action
A
- Blocks calcium from entering cardiac myocytes
- Prolongs the conduction of electrical impulses through AV node
- Causes vasodilation
- Decreases rate of ventricular response
- Decreases myocardial O2 demand
3
Q
Indications
A
- Ventricular rate control in rapid atrial fibrillation/flutter
4
Q
Contraindications
A
- Hypotension
- Heart block
- Heart failure
5
Q
Adverse Effects
A
- Flushing, headache, bradycardia, hypotension, heart block, myocardial depression, severe AV block, cardiac arrest in high doses
6
Q
Administration
A
- Adult: 0.25 mg/kg IV/IO over 2 minutes initial dose, repeat at 0.35 mg/kg IV/IO
- Peds: Not recommended
7
Q
Special Considerations
A
- Use with extreme caution in patients who are taking beta blockers as these two drug classes potentiate each other’s effects and toxicities
- Patients with a history of heart failure and heart block are at high risk for toxicity.