Diltiazem must be administered exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. Diltiazem is available in 30 mg and 60 mg tablets. It is used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, and other heart-related illnesses. It is sold by the tablet and requires a prescription from your veterinarian. Additionally, Diltiazem should not be given to pets with severe hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure), sick sinus syndrome, 2nd or 3rd degree AV block (heart condition), acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), or pulmonary congestion.
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Diltiazem ER for Dogs & Cats - 240mg, 90 capsules (Manufacturer may vary) - [Heart Support]
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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.
FAQ
Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or nursing. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is taking beta blockers, has liver or kidney failure, or is elderly. Make sure you understand the dosing schedule prescribed by your veterinarian. Also, discuss the exams and tests that may be necessary while your pet is on Diltiazem. Consult with your veterinarian if your pet is taking any other medications or supplements.
Administer Diltiazem Tablets by mouth, with or without food. For dogs, 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. For cats, dosage varies greatly depending on the condition and should be given exactly as directed by your veterinarian.
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.
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Don't give two doses at once.
Contact your veterinarian immediately. Signs of an overdose can include weakness, loss of appetite, difficult or rapid breathing, pale gums, and a low heart rate.
Do not give to pets with severe hypotension, sick sinus syndrome, 2nd or 3rd degree AV block, acute myocardial infarction, or pulmonary congestion.
Diltiazem may interact with the following drugs: anesthetics, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, buspirone, carbamazepine, cimetidine, clonidine, cyclosporine, digitalis, quinidine, rifampin, and statins. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is on any of these drugs.
