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Diltiazem ER for Dogs & Cats - 180mg, 1 capsules - [Heart Support]
- Description
- Directions
- Reviews
Description
Diltiazem is an extra-label calcium channel blocker prescribed to dogs and cats suffering from different heart conditions that include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or thickened heart walls, high blood pressure, and irregular heartbeats. Calcium enters the heart through calcium channels and causes the heart muscle and blood vessels to contract, making it harder to pump blood through the body. Diltiazem blocks these calcium channels, reducing the contraction of the heart muscle and dilating the arteries. This slows the heart beat and lowers blood pressure, allowing the heart to pump blood more efficiently.
Key Benefits
- Diltiazem helps the heart beat more efficiently
- Treats high blood pressure and certain heart rhythm abnormalities in dog and cats
- You can administer the tablet form of diltiazem with or without food
How It Works
Diltiazem works by preventing calcium from building up in your pet's blood vessels, making blood flow easier and lowering blood pressure.
Indications
Diltiazem hydrochloride tablets USP are indicated for the management of chronic stable angina and angina due to coronary artery spasm.
Directions
- Always make sure there is fresh water available for your pet.
- Tablets can be taken with or without food.
- Give Diltiazem exactly as it is prescribed by your veterinarian.
Tip: Always make sure there is fresh water available for your pet.
| Pet | Weight Range | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs | All weights | The standard oral formulation is 0.5-2 mg/kg (0.23-0.91 mg/lb) by mouth 3 times daily or every 8 hours. |
| Cats | All weights | Dosage varies depending on the condition. Give exactly as directed by your veterinarian. |
Cautions:
Keep out of the reach of children and pets. Diltiazem should not be used in animals with known allergies to this drug. Some animals may become weak due to lower blood pressure while taking diltiazem. Notify your veterinarian if your animal is taking any other medications, especially digoxin, propanolol, cimetidine, and cyclosporine. Use caution when giving diltiazem to animals suffering from heart failure or low blood pressure. Store at room temperature. Store protected from light and moisture.
Possible Side Effects:
Diltiazem's most common side effect is bradycardia (slow heart rate). Other side effects can include vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and loss of appetite. Rare, but possible side effects are hypotension, heart block, arrhythmias, central nervous system effects, and elevated enzymes.
Storage:
Should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
