Diltiazem is a calcium-channel blocker with peripheral and coronary vasodilator properties. It lowers blood pressure and has some effect on cardiac conduction. Diltiazem interferes with the influx of calcium ions through the channels of active cell membranes.

Diltiazem Hydrochloride film coated tablet is used for the prophylaxis and treatment of chronic stable (classical) and vasopastic angina pectoris and has also been used alone or in combination in the management of hypertension, also, Diltiazem is effective in myocardial infarction, coronary artery spasm, arrhythmias, Raynaud's phenomenon, oesophageal motility disorder and migraine.

Adult: The usual dose of Diltiazem Hydrochloride film coated tablet is 60 mg thrice daily. However patient's response may vary and dosage requirements can differ significantly between individual patients. If necessary, the divided dose may be increased to 180-300 mg/day. Dosage may be started as 30 mg four times daily and increasing at 1 to 2 days intervals until the optimum response is achieved. Higher doses upto 480 mg/day have been used with benefit in some patients especially in unstable angina. Elderly and patients with impaired hepatic or renal function: The recommended starting dose is 60 mg twice daily. The heart rate should be measured regularly and the dose should not be increased if the heart rate falls below 50 beats per minute.

Children: Not recommended.

Diltiazem is contraindicated to the patients of severe bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, pregnancy, second or third degree AV block.

With Diltiazem headache, ankle oedema, hypertension, dizziness, flushing, rashes (toxic erythema), nausea and Gl disturbances may occur. Transient elevation in liver enzyme values and occasionally hepatitis have been reported. Diltiazem may depress cardiac conduction and has occasionally led to AV block, bradycardia and rarely asystoleor sinus arrest.

Diltiazem should be used with care in patients with lesser degrees of AV block or bradycardia; also in patients with impaired left ventricular function. Caution should be required in patients with impaired liver or kidney function.