Diltiazem
A rate-limiting calcium channel blocker for AF rate control and angina. Avoid in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
On this page
Dose
| Route | Dose |
|---|---|
| Oral | 60 mg 3 times daily, or modified-release 120–360 mg daily |
| IV (where available) | 0.25 mg/kg over 2 minutes, then 0.35 mg/kg after 15 minutes if needed |
Cautions
- Avoid in heart failure with reduced EF, low BP, heart block, pre-excited AF.
- Don't combine with beta-blockers IV.
Frequently asked questions
Can diltiazem be used in heart failure?
Not in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.
Used in these guides
Sources
Doses on this page are typical doses from the sources above. Always confirm with a current drug reference, the product leaflet and your hospital protocol, especially in children, pregnancy and kidney or liver disease.
For FCPS Part 1
Revising for FCPS Part 1? Diltiazem is covered in our textbook chapter Antiarrhythmic and antianginal drugs, with practice MCQs.