om the GI tract, only about 40% will reach systemic circulation due to an extensive first-pass effect (http://promini.medscape.com). Binding studies show diltiazem HCL is 70% to 80% bound to plasma proteins (www.medsafe.govt). One study showed an increase of 69% in individuals with impaired hepatic functioning or sclerosis of the liver (www.medsafe.govt).Pharmacodynamics: Diltiazem HCL ORALDiltiazem HCL inhibits the influx of calcium ions during membrane de-polarization and is known as a calcium antagonist (www.medsafe.govt). diltiazem decreases the sinoatrial in the atrioventricular conduction in isolated tissues, and is known to have a negative iontropic effect (www.medsafe.govt). this causes a decrease in vascular resistance do to the relaxation of the vascular smooth muscle (www.rxlist.com). By inhibiting the contractile processes of the cardiac and vascular smooth muscle diltiazem dialates the main coronary and systemic arteries, decreasing myocardial contractility (http://promini.medscape.com). Proposed benefits of drug: Diltiazem HCL ORALThe proposed benefit of diltiazem HCL is to relieve and control angina, to reduce high blood pressure, and to correct heartbeat irregularities, in an easily administered once a day tablet.Research method: Diltiazem HCL ORALThe research method that was used was a double blind, parallel, dose-response study utilizing dosages the from 90 to 540 mg once daily (www.rxlist.com). Further all participants had their blood pressures measured while in the supine position (www.rxlist.com). Results of drug research: Diltiazem HCL ORALIn the double blind study of doses from 60 mg to 480 mg once daily participants the duration of time until the termination of exercise along the entire dosage range (www.rxlist.com). Important is the finding that in patients with sick sinus syndrome there was an elongation of the PR interval of up 50% (www.rxlist.com).Nursing implications:Diltiazem HCL ORALMonitor blood p...
