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Diltiazem HCl is a known drug that is used to treat various medical conditions such as hypertension, chest pain and abnormal heart rates. This article provides pertinent information about Diltiazem HCl and how it treats these medical conditions.

Classification

Diltiazem HCl is classified under a group of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. As a calcium inhibitor, it prevents calcium ions from building up in the cardiac muscles causing the blood vessels to dilate which makes it easier for blood to flow through the arteries.

and Hypertension

Blood pressure rises when blood cannot circulate properly through the arteries. This makes the heart work more than it should to pump blood into the blood vessels and throughout the body. Diltiazem HCl works as a vasodilator. It causes the arteries to relax and widen which makes blood pass much faster. Usually, increased heart rate is a condition which arises from hypertension. When the blood vessels are well dilated, the pressure on the heart to pump blood faster is lifted. Eventually a normal heart rate is achieved.

Dosage information for Diltiazem HCl

Diltiazem HCl is intended for treating mild to moderate essential hypertension. Starting doses are 180 to 240 milligrams (mg) once, daily. This drug usually comes in tablet or capsule form. As such, the frequency of administering the drug may vary. It is not supposed to be crushed or chewed. Some doctors would prescribe their patients take it 2-3 times a day. You need to consult your physician first before taking this drug. Never take in more than the recommended dosage. The maximum daily dosage for Diltiazem HCl is 360 mg. Overdose of this drug may cause an abnormal decrease in heart rate, hypotension and cardiac failure.

Side-effects

When Diltiazem HCl is used to treat hypertension, the common adverse effects include headache, an abnormally low heart rate, edema (swelling) and sinus congestion. If these symptoms persist, you need to contact your physician so he can prescribe another medication or to completely stop the administration of the drug. In cases where fainting or increased chest pain occurs, your doctor may need to remove you from the medication.

Added Info

Diltiazem HCl is not a recommended medication for children. The effectiveness and safety of this drug with regards to children has not been established yet. The same goes with older people (aged 65 and above). The risk of adverse effects is higher in this age group. If the drug has to be administered to old people, proper monitoring should be observed to prevent the risk of cardiac failure.

Diltiazem is known to be secreted in human milk. Either the medication should be suspended or an alternative feeding method should be used.

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