Diltiazem
Brands: Cardizem, Dilacor
Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker used to treat heart conditions in pets, like arrhythmias and hypertension.
Used for
- hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- arrhythmias
- hypertension
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- every 8-12 hours
- Duration
- as prescribed by a veterinarian
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 7.5 mg per cat every 8-12 hours
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.5-1 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Small dogs
- 0.5-1 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Medium dogs
- 0.5-1 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Diltiazem hydrochloride
Side effects
Common
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
Rare
- gastrointestinal upset
Severe
- respiratory distress
Do not use when
- severe heart failure
- liver disease
Interacts with
- beta-blockers
- digoxin
Warnings
- Use with caution in pets with liver disease
- Avoid in severe heart failure without vet guidance
Diltiazem questions
What is the main use of Diltiazem in pets?
It is used to treat heart conditions such as arrhythmias and hypertension.
Can Diltiazem be given with food?
Yes, it can be administered with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Are there any breed-specific concerns?
No specific breed concerns, but individual response varies.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Administer the missed dose unless it is close to the time for the next dose.
How long does it take for Diltiazem to work?
Effects can be seen within a few hours, but full benefits may take days.
Full drug detail
Overview
Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker commonly prescribed for pets to manage certain heart conditions such as arrhythmias and hypertension. As a veterinary pharmacologist, it's essential to provide accurate and comprehensive information about this medication to ensure pet health and safety.
How It Works
Diltiazem works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and smooth muscle cells. This action decreases the strength of heart muscle contractions, lowers heart rate, and dilates arteries, which helps to reduce blood pressure and correct abnormal heart rhythms.
Uses & Indications
Diltiazem is primarily used in veterinary medicine to treat:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Certain types of arrhythmias
- Hypertension
Dosage Guidelines
Diltiazem dosage must be tailored to the individual pet based on condition severity and response to treatment:
- Dogs:
- Small: 0.5-1 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Medium: 0.5-1 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Large: 0.5-1 mg/kg every 8-12 hours
- Cats:
- Standard: 7.5 mg per cat every 8-12 hours
Administration
Diltiazem is administered orally, usually in tablet or capsule form. It is important to follow the veterinarian's dosing schedule closely.
Side Effects
Common
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Rare
- Gastrointestinal upset
Severe
- Respiratory distress (requires immediate veterinary attention)
Precautions & Warnings
Diltiazem should be used with caution in pets with:
- Liver disease
- Severe heart failure
Drug Interactions
Diltiazem may interact with:
- Beta-blockers
- Digoxin
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
FAQ
What is the main use of Diltiazem in pets?
It is used to treat heart conditions such as arrhythmias and hypertension.
Can Diltiazem be given with food?
Yes, it can be administered with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
Are there any breed-specific concerns?
No specific breed concerns, but individual response varies.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Administer the missed dose unless it is close to the time for the next dose.
How long does it take for Diltiazem to work?
Effects can be seen within a few hours, but full benefits may take days.