Cardiovascular Pharmacology: Diltiazem Overview

Indications for Diltiazem

• Used to treat hypertension, angina pectoris, and vasospastic (Prinzmetal's) angina.
• Effective in managing supraventricular tachyarrhythmias and rapidly controlling ventricular rates in atrial flutter or fibrillation.

Mechanism of Action

• Inhibits calcium transport into myocardial and vascular smooth muscle cells.
• This action reduces excitation-contraction coupling, thereby decreasing cardiac contraction strength.
• Leads to systemic vasodilation, which lowers blood pressure.
• Promotes coronary vasodilation, reducing the frequency and severity of angina attacks.
• Aids in the reduction of ventricular rate during atrial fibrillation or flutter.

Contraindications and Precautions

• Contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug.
• Not recommended for patients with sick sinus syndrome or 2nd- or 3rd-degree AV blocks unless an artificial pacemaker is present.
• Caution is advised in patients with low systolic blood pressure.

This quiz explores the indications, mechanism of action, and contraindications of Diltiazem, a key medication used in cardiovascular therapy. Test your understanding of how Diltiazem functions in treating conditions like hypertension and angina, as well as its effects on heart rate control. Perfect for students of pharmacology or medicine.