DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Question 1

Generic/Trade Name

DILTIAZEM

Answer 1

Cardizem®

Question 2

Generic/Trade Name

Cardizem®

Answer 2

DILTIAZEM

Question 3

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Drug Classification:

Answer 3

Ca2+ Channel Blocker

Question 4

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Mechanism of Action:

Answer 4

Ca2+ Channel Blocker ⇒

• peripheral and coronary vasodilation
• slowed conduction through AV node
• (-) inotropy (strength of contraction)
• decreased myocardial O2 demand

Question 5

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 5

• Onset of Action = 3 minutes
• Peak Effects = 7 minutes
• Duration of Effect = 1-3 hours
• Half-Life = 2 hours

Question 6

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Indications & Contraindications

Answer 6

Indications/Field Use:
• Rapid ventricular rates associated with a-fib, a-flutter
• PSVT refractory to adenosine

Contraindications:
• Severe hypotension, cardiogenic shock, CHF
• Wide complex tachycardia
• WPW

Question 7

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions:

Answer 7

N+V, dizziness, HA, hypotension

bradycardia, heart block, asystole

Question 8

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Adult & Pedi Dose:

Answer 8

(ADULT):

• *1st dose** - 0.25mg/kg IVP(IO) over 2min (usual dose 15-20mg)
• *2nd dose** - 0.35mg/kg

Maintenance dose: 5-15mg/hr

(PEDI): not for pedi

Question 9

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Precautions:

Answer 9

• May cause systemic hypotension
• monitor BP
• have CaCl2 available

**Must be discarded after one month without refrigeration**

Question 10

DILTIAZEM (Cardizem®)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Answer 10

Do not give to Pt. receiving IV β blockers

will increase risk of CHF, bradycardia