Diltiazem (Cardizem) 2025: A Guide for Treating Heart and Blood Pressure Issues in Pets 🐾💊

Diltiazem (Cardizem) is a calcium channel blocker primarily used in veterinary medicine to treat conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. It helps relax the heart muscle and dilate blood vessels, making it useful for managing heart disease and high blood pressure in pets 🐾. This article provides an in-depth look at diltiazem's uses, side effects, interactions, and precautions in 2025. 💊💉

What is Diltiazem? 🤔

Diltiazem belongs to a class of medications known as calcium channel blockers. It works by blocking the flow of calcium through the voltage-gated calcium channels in the heart and blood vessels. This action relaxes the muscles in the blood vessels, leading to their dilation, which reduces blood pressure. It also helps the heart muscle relax and slows the electrical conduction, allowing the heart to fill more efficiently and pump blood more effectively 🧠💓.

Diltiazem is commonly used to treat:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) in Cats: This condition causes the heart muscle to become stiff and overworked. Diltiazem helps relax the heart, allowing it to fill more effectively and reduce fatigue 🐱❤️.
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Diltiazem can help lower blood pressure, which is crucial for pets with cardiovascular issues 💉.

How Diltiazem is Used 🐾💉

Diltiazem is available in 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, and 120 mg tablets, as well as extended-release capsules (120 mg, 180 mg, 240 mg, 300 mg, 360 mg, and 420 mg). The extended-release capsules contain time-releasing beads, which should not be crushed 🔒.

It is typically given 2-3 times a day with or without food. For best results, follow your veterinarian's specific dosing instructions and avoid skipping doses 🕒. If a dose is missed, do not double up on the next dose—simply continue with the regular schedule ⏰.

Side Effects of Diltiazem ⚠️

While diltiazem is effective, it can cause some side effects. Common side effects include:

• Vomiting: This is generally eased by giving the medication with food 🍽️.
• Weight Loss: This may occur after two to six months of treatment 🐾.

More serious side effects can include:

• Collapse: If the heart rate or blood pressure drops too low, the pet may experience collapse ⚡.
• Weakness: Pets may exhibit signs of weakness or lethargy 😴.
• Jaundice and Skin Rashes: These are rare but require medical attention if they occur 🩸.

Interactions with Other Drugs 🔄💊

There are several important drug interactions to be aware of when using diltiazem:

• Beta-Blockers: Diltiazem should not be used with beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, propranolol), as they may worsen low blood pressure effects 💔.
• Antacids: Cimetidine (Tagamet®) and ranitidine can increase diltiazem's blood levels, enhancing its effects 🧴.
• Fentanyl and Hydrocodone: These pain relievers may become stronger when combined with diltiazem 💉.
• Cisapride: When used with diltiazem, cisapride can lead to heart rhythm problems 💓.
• Theophylline: This airway dilator can become more toxic when used with diltiazem 💨.

Make sure to inform your veterinarian about all other medications your pet is taking to avoid harmful interactions 💊.

Concerns and Cautions ⚠️

There are several important precautions to consider when using diltiazem in pets:

• Heart Issues: Diltiazem should not be used in pets with heart conditions where further slowing of the heart rate or reducing heart contraction strength could be dangerous (e.g., congestive heart failure, AV blockage-type arrhythmias) 💔.
• Liver and Kidney Disease: Diltiazem should be avoided in pets with liver or kidney failure. If use is necessary, dose adjustments may be required 🏥.
• Pregnancy: Diltiazem should not be used in pregnant pets due to potential risks to the developing fetus 🐾❌.
• Drug Absorption: Extended-release capsules should not be crushed or altered as it will affect the medication's efficacy 🔒.

Store diltiazem at room temperature and protect it from light to ensure it remains effective 🌞.

Conclusion 🐾💬

Diltiazem (Cardizem) is a highly effective medication for managing hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and high blood pressure in pets, especially cats. It helps relax the heart, allowing for better heart function and reduced workload. While it is generally safe when used appropriately, it is essential to follow your veterinarian's instructions to avoid potential side effects and drug interactions 💊🐶. If you have concerns or questions about using diltiazem for your pet, visit AskAVet.com for expert advice 🐾💬. You can also download the Ask A Vet app for quick access to professional pet care support 📱.