Diltiazem
Uses
Diltiazem is used in the treatment of abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), high blood pressure (hypertension), and angina chest pain.
How it Works
Diltiazem is known as a calcium channel blocker. Diltiazem works by blocking the amount of calcium that goes into the 'smooth' muscle cells in the walls of blood vessels and in the heart. Calcium is needed for muscles to contract, so reducing the amount of calcium using Diltiazem causes the muscle cells to relax. Diltiazem reduces the force and the rate of heartbeat, and this helps to prevent angina chest pain.
Common Side effects
Patients who take Diltiazem may suffer from such side effects;
Headache,
Nausea,
Fatigue,
Dizziness,
Feeling of discomfort,
Dyspepsia,
Stomach pain,
Peripheral edema,
Constipation,
Redness of skin,
Flushing