Managing Hypertension and Angina with DILTIAZONE CD 120: Benefits and Dosage

Jan 08, 2025

Introduction

Diltiazone CD 120 is a potent medication commonly used to treat cardiovascular conditions, particularly hypertension and angina. The active ingredient, Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release 120 mg, belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers (CCBs), which help regulate the flow of calcium ions into heart and blood vessel cells. By doing so, it helps to relax the blood vessels, reduce heart rate, and improve blood circulation, leading to better management of conditions like high blood pressure and chronic angina.

This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of Diltiazone CD 120, its uses, benefits, dosage, side effects, and important considerations when using this extended-release formulation. Whether you're a patient considering this medication or a healthcare provider looking for a detailed reference, this guide covers everything you need to know.

What is DILTIAZONE CD 120?

Diltiazone CD 120 is a Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release 120 mg formulation designed to provide consistent and controlled release of the active ingredient over a prolonged period. This allows for once-daily dosing, improving convenience and compliance for patients. Diltiazem Hydrochloride is widely recognized for its ability to manage hypertension (high blood pressure) and treat angina (chest pain) caused by coronary artery disease.

As an extended-release formulation, Diltiazone CD 120 gradually releases the active ingredient throughout the day, ensuring sustained therapeutic effects while minimizing fluctuations in drug levels.

How Diltiazone CD 120 Works

Diltiazem Hydrochloride works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into the heart and smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels. Calcium plays a critical role in muscle contraction. By blocking calcium entry, Diltiazem causes the heart to beat more slowly and with less force, while also dilating blood vessels to lower blood pressure. The extended-release form of Diltiazem Hydrochloride 120 mg ensures that the medication stays effective throughout the day, leading to more consistent symptom management.

Primary Uses of DILTIAZONE CD 120

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Diltiazone CD 120 is primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure. By relaxing and dilating the blood vessels, Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release 120 mg helps to lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems. Lower blood pressure also alleviates symptoms like dizziness and headaches.

2. Angina (Chest Pain)
Angina occurs when the heart does not receive enough oxygen due to narrowed or blocked coronary arteries. Diltiazone CD 120 is effective in preventing and treating chronic stable angina. It works by reducing the workload on the heart, improving oxygen supply, and preventing the chest pain associated with angina.

3. Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)
Diltiazone CD 120 can also be used to treat certain types of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), a condition where the heart beats too fast due to abnormal electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart. By slowing the heart rate, Diltiazem Hydrochloride helps restore normal heart rhythm.

Benefits of DILTIAZONE CD 120

  1. Effective Blood Pressure Control:
    One of the primary benefits of Diltiazone CD 120 is its ability to manage high blood pressure. By dilating blood vessels, it reduces the pressure exerted on the walls of the arteries, lowering the risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
  2. Prevention of Angina Attacks:
    For patients with chronic stable angina, this extended-release formulation helps reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain. It promotes better oxygen delivery to the heart, alleviating the strain that causes angina.
  3. Long-Lasting Effects:
    The extended-release formulation of Diltiazone CD 120 ensures that the medication works steadily throughout the day. This reduces the need for multiple daily doses and helps maintain consistent drug levels in the bloodstream.
  4. Reduced Risk of Side Effects:
    Because of its extended-release design, Diltiazone CD 120 minimizes the sharp peaks and troughs in drug concentration that can lead to side effects, making it gentler on the system compared to immediate-release versions of the drug.

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of Diltiazone CD 120 depends on the individual patient’s condition, response to treatment, and healthcare provider’s recommendations. The typical starting dose for Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release 120 mg is one tablet per day. However, depending on the patient’s needs, the dose may be adjusted by a healthcare provider.

  • For Hypertension: The initial dose is usually 120 mg to 180 mg once daily. Depending on the blood pressure response, the dose can be increased.
  • For Angina: The starting dose may range from 120 mg to 180 mg once daily, with adjustments based on clinical response.
  • For Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): Doses are individualized and depend on the severity of the condition.

Diltiazone CD 120 should be taken once daily, preferably at the same time each day. It is important to swallow the tablet whole and not crush, chew, or break it to ensure the sustained release of the medication.

Potential Side Effects of DILTIAZONE CD 120

Like all medications, Diltiazone CD 120 may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some common side effects include:

  1. Headache: A common side effect, particularly during the initial stages of treatment.
  2. Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Especially when standing up quickly, as the blood pressure drops.
  3. Fatigue: Some individuals may feel unusually tired or lethargic.
  4. Swelling: Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (edema) may occur.
  5. Bradycardia (Slow Heart Rate): The medication may cause a slowing of the heart rate, which can be problematic for some individuals.

Less common but more serious side effects include:

  1. Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, and rash.
  2. Heart Block: A condition where the heart's electrical signals are delayed or blocked, potentially leading to a slow heart rate or irregular heartbeats.
  3. Liver Problems: Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and abdominal pain.

Patients should immediately contact their healthcare provider if any of these side effects occur.

Precautions and Warnings

Before starting Diltiazone CD 120, inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

  1. Heart Problems: Patients with certain heart conditions, such as heart block, bradycardia, or severe congestive heart failure, should use Diltiazone CD 120 with caution.
  2. Liver or Kidney Disease: Since the liver and kidneys process this medication, patients with liver or kidney problems may require dose adjustments.
  3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Diltiazone CD 120 should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, as it may affect the fetus. It is also excreted in breast milk, so consult with a healthcare provider before using it while breastfeeding.
  4. Alcohol Use: Alcohol can exacerbate side effects like dizziness and lightheadedness, so it's advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Interactions with Other Medications

Diltiazone CD 120 may interact with other medications, which can alter its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Some common interactions include:

  1. Beta-Blockers: The combination of Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release 120 mg and beta-blockers may cause a significant drop in heart rate and blood pressure.
  2. Other Antihypertensive Medications: Combining Diltiazone CD 120 with other blood pressure-lowering medications may cause a significant drop in blood pressure.
  3. CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like ketoconazole, clarithromycin, and grapefruit juice can increase the blood levels of Diltiazone, leading to an increased risk of side effects.

Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you're taking before starting Diltiazone CD 120.

Conclusion

Diltiazone CD 120, with its active ingredient Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release 120 mg, is a highly effective medication for managing hypertension, angina, and supraventricular tachycardia. With its extended-release formulation, it provides consistent and controlled therapeutic effects throughout the day, ensuring better blood pressure control, reduced frequency of angina attacks, and improved heart function. While generally well-tolerated, it is important to be mindful of potential side effects and drug interactions. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and discuss any concerns regarding dosage or side effects. With proper use, Diltiazone CD 120 can significantly improve quality of life for those managing cardiovascular conditions. Steris Healthcare Pvt Ltd, known as Sterispharma, was founded in February 2018 by a team of experienced professionals in the pharmaceutical industry. Headquartered in Navi Mumbai, the company holds certifications from WHO, GMP, and ISO, reflecting its dedication to maintaining high standards of quality and safety. Sterispharma’s mission is to provide affordable, high-quality medications across India, strictly adhering to WHO guidelines. With the convenience of an online pharmacy, customers can easily order medicines with home delivery options. The company offers a wide range of healthcare products, catering to various medical needs, from rare disease treatments to essential healthcare products. Sterispharma's product range includes solutions for Cardiology, Asthma, Respiratory Issues, Nasal Conditions, Diabetes, Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Orthopedics, Anti-infectives/Antibiotics, General Medicine, Urology, Neurology, Nephrology, Oncology, Gynecology, Pediatrics, Dental Care, and Dermatology. Medicines can be conveniently ordered via Our websites—Sterisonline, Sterisindia, and Sterispharma.

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