Diltiazem HCl 12 mg/mL Oral Syrup is a compounded liquid medication containing diltiazem hydrochloride, a calcium channel blocker used to manage certain cardiovascular conditions. This formulation provides a palatable and easy-to-administer option for patients who may have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, such as children or adults with dysphagia.

Diltiazem works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels. It inhibits the influx of calcium ions during membrane depolarization of cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. This action helps to lower blood pressure, reduce chest pain (angina), and regulate heart rate in conditions where the heart beats too

Diltiazem HCl 12 mg/mL Oral Syrup is a calcium channel blocker used primarily in the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain types of arrhythmias. As with any medication, it is important to be aware of potential drug interactions that may affect the efficacy and safety of the treatment. This formulation, being a liquid syrup, is particularly beneficial for pediatric patients or those who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, ensuring compliance and ease of administration.

One of the primary concerns with diltiazem is its interaction with other cardiovascular drugs. When used concomitantly with beta-blockers such as metoprolol or atenolol, there is an increased risk of bradycardia, atrioventricular block, or heart failure due to the additive effects on cardiac conduction and contractility. It is crucial for prescribers to monitor heart rate and blood pressure closely and adjust dosages accordingly.

Diltiazem is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system. Therefore, drugs that inhibit or induce this enzyme can significantly alter diltiazem plasma concentrations. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir can increase diltiazem levels, potentially leading to toxicity. Conversely, CYP3A4 inducers like rifampin or phenytoin may decrease its effectiveness by lowering plasma concentrations. Patients should be advised to inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Additionally, diltiazem can increase the plasma concentrations of other drugs metabolized by CYP3A4, such as statins. This interaction is particularly significant with simvastatin and atorvastatin, where there is an increased risk of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. It is recommended to use the lowest effective dose of the statin or consider alternative lipid-lowering therapies.

Patients taking diltiazem should also be cautious with the use of digoxin. Diltiazem can increase serum digoxin levels, necessitating regular monitoring of digoxin levels and potential dose adjustments to avoid toxicity, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Alcohol can potentiate the hypotensive effects of diltiazem, leading to dizziness or fainting. Patients should be advised to limit alcohol consumption and be cautious when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.

For patients and prescribers considering the use of Diltiazem HCl 12 mg/mL Oral Syrup, it is essential to conduct a thorough medication review to identify potential interactions and adjust treatment plans accordingly. Regular monitoring and communication between the patient and healthcare provider can help manage these interactions effectively. If you have any questions or need further information, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy.

Diltiazem HCl 12 mg/mL Oral Syrup is a specialized liquid formulation designed to deliver the active ingredient, diltiazem hydrochloride, in a palatable and easily administrable form. This formulation is particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, such as pediatric patients or those with certain medical conditions that impair swallowing. The syrup is carefully compounded to ensure that each milliliter contains an accurate and consistent dose of 12 mg of diltiazem hydrochloride, allowing for precise dosing tailored to the patient's specific needs.

Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and smooth muscle cells. This action results in the relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and a subsequent decrease in blood pressure. Additionally, diltiazem reduces the workload on the heart by decreasing heart rate and contractility, which can be particularly beneficial in managing conditions such as hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain types of arrhythmias. By improving blood flow and reducing cardiac workload, diltiazem helps alleviate symptoms associated with these cardiovascular conditions and can improve overall heart function.

The oral syrup formulation of diltiazem HCl is compounded with sweeteners and flavoring agents to enhance its taste, making it more acceptable for patients, especially children, who may be sensitive to the taste of medications. The liquid form also allows for flexible dosing, which can be adjusted based on the patient's age, weight, and specific therapeutic requirements. This flexibility is crucial in pediatric care, where dosing often needs to be individualized to ensure both efficacy and safety.

For prescribers, the diltiazem HCl 12 mg/mL Oral Syrup offers a reliable and effective option for patients who require a liquid dosage form. It is important to consider the patient's overall medication regimen and potential interactions with other drugs they may be taking. Monitoring the patient's response to therapy and adjusting the dose as necessary is essential to achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes. As with any medication, adherence to prescribed dosing schedules is critical to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

If you have any questions about this formulation or need further information on how it can be integrated into a patient's treatment plan, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy. Our team of compounding pharmacists is here to assist you with any inquiries or concerns you may have.

Diltiazem HCl 12 mg/mL Oral Syrup is primarily used for the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and certain types of arrhythmias. However, this formulation can also be considered for other therapeutic uses due to its pharmacological properties as a calcium channel blocker. One potential off-label use of diltiazem is in the management of Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition characterized by episodes of reduced blood flow to the extremities, often triggered by cold or stress. By relaxing the blood vessels, diltiazem can help improve circulation and reduce the frequency and severity of these episodes.

Additionally, diltiazem may be used in the treatment of esophageal spasms, a condition that causes painful contractions of the esophagus. The muscle-relaxing properties of diltiazem can help alleviate these spasms, providing relief from associated symptoms such as chest pain and difficulty swallowing. In some cases, diltiazem has been explored for use in migraine prophylaxis, as its ability to modulate vascular tone may help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks in certain patients.

For patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, diltiazem can be beneficial in managing symptoms by reducing the heart's workload and improving diastolic function. This can lead to improved exercise tolerance and reduced symptoms of heart failure. Furthermore, diltiazem's role in the management of chronic anal fissures has been investigated, where its topical application can help relax the anal sphincter, promoting healing and reducing pain.

It is important for prescribers to consider the individual patient's medical history, current medications, and overall health status when contemplating the use of diltiazem for these alternative indications. Patients should be informed about the potential benefits and risks associated with off-label use and should be monitored closely for any adverse effects. As always, if you have any questions or need further information, please reach out to us at Bayview Pharmacy.