Coras

Generic Name: Diltiazem hydrochloride
Product Name: Coras

Indication

Diltiazem is used in the treatment of moderate to severe angina due to atherosclerotic disease of the coronary arteries disease or coronary artery spasm.

Action

Diltiazem acts by inhibiting the flow of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels and causes them to dilate. This prevents spasming and narrowing of the coronary arteries.
Diltiazem also increases the amount of exercise that a patient can do by reducing oxygen demand of the heart and increasing the oxygen supply to the heart muscle. Diltiazem reduces the heart rate and also lowers the blood pressure.

Dose advice

Initial patients are given 30mg of Diltiazem 4 times a day, before meals and at bedtime. This dose may be gradually increased by a doctor until they feel its effect has been maximised. The maximum dose that can be given in a day is 360 mg.

Schedule

Common side effects

Swelling of the ankles
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness and lightheadedness
Rash
Weakness
Hives

Uncommon side effects

Angina
Abnormal heart rhythms
Problems with electrical conduction in the heart
Slowed or increased heart rate
Flushing
Low blood pressure
Heart palpitations
Fainting
Abnormal dreams
Insomnia
Constipation
Diarrhoea
Dry mouth
Reflux
Weight increase
Shortness of breath
Nose bleeds
Eye irritation
Impotence
Muscle cramps
Increased urination