Diltiazem
Class:
Calcium channel blocker.
Actions:
Slows conduction through the AV node, causes vasodilation, decreases rate of
ventricular response, decreases myocardial oxygen demand.
Indications:
To control rapid ventricular response associated with atrial fibrillation and
flutter.
Contraindications:
Hypotension, wide complex tachycardia, conduction system disturbances.
Precautions:
Should not be used in patients receiving intravenous ß blockers. Hypotension.
Must be kept refrigerated or discarded one month after removal from
refrigeration.
Side Effects:
Nausea, vomiting, hypotension, and dizziness.
Dosage:
0.25 mg/kg bolus (typically 20 mg) IV over 2 minutes. This should be followed by
a maintenance infusion of 5-15 mg/hour.
Routes:
IV, IV drip.
Pediatric Dosage:
Rarely used
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