Side Effects of Diltiazem in Cats
Although diltiazem (common brand names Cardizem and Dilacor XR) is a human drug, it's a popular choice with veterinary cardiologists treating cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and other heart conditions. A calcium channel blocker, it inhibits the entry of calcium into heart muscle cells and helps the heart work more efficiently. Diltiazem is generally safe, but it does cause side effects in some cats.
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Vomiting and Loss of Appetite
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Vomiting is the most common side effect of Diltiazem in cats. It can also cause loss of appetite. If diltiazem makes your cat nauseous or affects his appetite, his cardiologist will recommend a different medication.
Low Blood Pressure or Slow or Irregular Heart Rate
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Low blood pressure and a slow or irregular heart rate can cause weakness and fainting. The normal resting heart rate for a cat is 150 to 200 beats per minute. If your cat seems weak or if she faints, contact her cardiologist immediately.
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Allergic Reactions
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Allergic reactions to diltiazem include facial swelling, hives, scratching and diarrhea.
More serious reactions are shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs or coma. These are medical emergencies, and the cat needs to be treated by a veterinarian immediately.
Beware of Drug Interactions
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Diltiazem may interact with other medications, especially digoxin, propranolol, cimetidine and cyclosporin.
Side effects are more likely to occur when diltiazem is given with powerful diuretics and vasodilators (drugs that reduce constriction of the blood vessels).
A holistic veterinarian can tell you which vitamins, herbs and supplements are safe to use with this drug.
Don't Overdose
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To avoid overdosing your cat, follow dosing instructions exactly and never give two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
Signs of an overdose are weakness, fainting, coughing, inability to exercise, loss of appetite, difficult or rapid breathing, distended abdomen and pale gums. If you notice any of these signs or think you might have overdosed your cat, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Administering Diltiazem
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Diltiazem is available as tablets, liquid or a transdermal gel that you rub inside an ear tip. Extended-release tablets are also available for once-a-day dosing.
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