Product Description

Diltiazem Sustained Release 60 mg Tablets IP are used to treat mild to moderate hypertension (high blood pressure) and to manage chronic stable angina, as well as angina caused by coronary artery spasms. Hypertension is a condition where the force of blood against the walls of blood vessels is elevated, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Angina is chest pain resulting from reduced blood flow to the heart muscle due to narrowing or spasms of the coronary arteries.

Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the smooth muscles of blood vessels and the heart. This action dilates the coronary arteries and reduces blood pressure, thereby easing anginal chest pain and helping to prevent hypertension.

Uses

Diltiazem Sustained Release Tablets are used for:

• Treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Management of chronic stable angina and angina caused by coronary artery spasms

• Control of certain types of irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), as prescribed by your doctor

How it works

Diltiazem blocks calcium channels in the smooth muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation of blood vessels. This reduces blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart, which helps relieve and prevent angina.

Benefits

• Lowers high blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke

• Dilates the coronary arteries, improving oxygen supply to the heart muscle and relieving angina

• Reduces the heart’s workload by decreasing resistance in blood vessels

• Helps control certain arrhythmias by slowing electrical conduction in the heart

How to use

• Take the tablet whole with a glass of water, preferably at the same time each day.

• Do not crush, chew, or split the tablet, as this can affect the sustained-release mechanism.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and duration.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Swelling of hands, feet, or ankles

• Headache

• Dizziness or light-headedness

• Palpitations

• Constipation

• Indigestion

• Nausea

• Fatigue

If you experience signs of allergic reactions, severe skin rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or symptoms of heart failure (such as shortness of breath or swollen ankles), seek medical attention immediately.

Safety Advice

• Avoid alcohol while taking Diltiazem, as it may increase dizziness and lower blood pressure further.

• Use with caution if you have kidney or liver disease; dose adjustments may be necessary.

• Inform your doctor if you have heart failure, low blood pressure, or other heart conditions.

• Do not stop taking Diltiazem abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider.

• Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid interactions.

• Avoid grapefruit juice, as it can increase diltiazem levels and the risk of side effects.

Storage Conditions

Store at a temperature below 86°F (30 °C). Protect from light and moisture.

FAQs  

Can Diltiazem Hydrochloride 60 mg Tablet IP be stopped if a person feels better?

Diltiazem Hydrochloride should not be stopped abruptly, even if symptoms improve. High blood pressure is often without symptoms, and stopping treatment can increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Always seek your doctor’s advice before making any changes to your medication.

What to do if a dose is missed?

If a dose is missed, take it when remembered. If the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. 

What are the possible drug and food interactions?

• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can increase diltiazem levels and cause side effects.

• Avoid alcohol, which can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and worsen dizziness.

• Inform a doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products, as diltiazem interacts with several drugs, including beta-blockers, digoxin, and statins. 

Can Diltiazem Hydrochloride 60 mg Tablet IP be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

• It is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus.

• It may pass into breast milk and is generally not advised for breastfeeding mothers.

Discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor if pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding. 

Who should not take this medication?

Avoid Diltiazem if you have: 

• An allergy to diltiazem.

• Certain heart conditions, like sick sinus syndrome or heart block.

• Very low blood pressure.

• Liver or kidney problems.