What is diltiazem hydrochloride cream used for?
What is it used for? Diltiazem hydrochloride 2% cream is used to promote the healing of the tear that has occurred in the skin of the anus (back passage) and reduce the symptoms of pain caused by the tear. The tear in the skin lining the anus is called an anal fissure.
How quickly does diltiazem cream work?
In keeping with earlier reports[11-13], topical 2% diltiazem gel in this study provided earlier pain relief, with a significant reduction in pain after 1 wk and preceded the significant healing rate of chronic anal fissure observed at 6 wk of treatment.
Does diltiazem cream need to be refrigerated?
Do not store or use the cream after the expiry date. Store in a refrigerator, away from direct heat and light.
When do you apply diltiazem cream?
Use the cream twice a day every day (morning and evening) for 2 months. Wash hands after use and dispose of finger covering appropriately. It is important that you use this cream every day and complete the full course to offer the best chance of successful healing.
Where do you apply diltiazem ointment?
Because it is in an ointment form, topical diltiazem is easy for patients to use. Patients simply apply a pea-sized drop ointment to the skin just inside the anus three times per day, or as often as directed. Depending on the severity of the anal fissure, it may take several weeks of treatment for the fissure to heal.
Is diltiazem cream over the counter?
There no commercially manufactured formulation of topical 2% diltiazem has been approved yet by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of anal fissure, prescriptions for the medication need to be compounded with a prescription from a doctor.
Does diltiazem heal fissure?
Conclusion: This study shows that topical 2% diltiazem is an effective and safe treatment for chronic anal fissure in patients who have failed topical 0.2% GTN. The need for sphincterotomy can be avoided in up to 70% of cases.
How does diltiazem work for fissures?
Diltiazem ointment relaxes the sphincter muscle, which alleviates pain and allows stool to pass more easily. This medication also promotes blood flow, which allows the healing process to begin. The ointment reduces pressure within the anal canal pressure, which diminishes pain and spasm.
Does diltiazem cream cause burning?
Local burning or itching or rectal bleeding. If troublesome, speak with your doctor. If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
What are the side effects of diltiazem?
Applies to diltiazem: compounding powder, intravenous powder for injection, intravenous solution, oral capsule extended release, oral tablet, oral tablet extended release The most commonly reported side effects include edema, headache, and dizziness.
How do you take diltiazem capsules?
Do not crush, chew, break, or open an extended-release diltiazem tablet or capsule. Swallow it whole. To make swallowing easier, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you can open a diltiazem capsule and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce. Swallow right away without chewing.
What are the different types of diltiazem available?
Applies to diltiazem: compounding powder, intravenous powder for injection, intravenous solution, oral capsule extended release, oral tablet, oral tablet extended release The most commonly reported side effects include edema, headache, and dizziness. [ Ref]
How does diltiazem help with angina?
When used regularly, diltiazem can decrease the number and severity of episodes of chest pain from angina. It may help increase your ability to exercise .Diltiazem is called a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels in the body and heart so blood can flow more easily. Diltiazem also lowers your heart rate.