.
Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker used to treat angina pectoris, heart arrhythmias, and high blood pressure.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Dehydroepiandrosterone
(DHEA)
Diltiazem has been shown to raise blood levels of DHEA and DHEA-sulfate in insulin-resistant,
obese men with high blood pressure.1
Interactions with Herbs
Pleurisy root
As pleurisy root and other plants in the Aesclepius genus contain cardiac glycosides,
it is best to avoid use of pleurisy root with heart medications such as calcium channel
blockers.2
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Diltiazem may be taken with or without food.3 Sustained-release diltiazem products
should be swallowed whole, without opening, crushing, or chewing.4
Summary of Interactions for Diltiazem
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | DHEA |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Beer NA, Jakubowicz DJ, Beer RM, Nestler JE. Disparate effects of insulin reduction with diltiazem on serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels in obese hypertensive men and women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1994;79:1077–81.
2. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 213–4.
3. Du Souich P, Lery N, Lery L, et al. Influence of food on the bioavailability of diltiazem and two of its metabolites following the administration of conventional tablets and slow-release capsules. Biopharm Drug Dispos 1990;11:137–47.
4. Threlkeld DS, ed. Diuretics and Cardiovasculars, Calcium Channel Blocking Agents. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Mar 1996, 149r–9t.
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