Diltiazem Tables:

Pharmacokinetics

Bioavailability Peak plasma level Plasma half-life Active metabolites Elimination
variable* 40% 2 to 4 hours 4 to 5 hours yes extrarenal
*Pronounced presystemic metabolism. Bioavailability increases with higher doses!

Dose
Indication Administration
Initial loading dose
Dose Interval
Maintenance dose
Dose Interval
angina, hypertension oral 30-60 mg 6 to 12 hours 90-180 mg 12 hours*
emergencies (e.g. hypertension) i.v. 0.25 mg/kg** 30 minutes - -
*This data refers to slow-release tablets; Dilzem RR (180 mg) is taken once daily.
**Inject slowly; a delayed injection is possible (5-15 mg/hour, maximum of 300 mg/24 hours).

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