Does Diltiazem Hydrochloride Interact with Cyclosporine?
Diltiazem Hydrochloride and Cyclosporine have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. May require dosage adjustment due to competitive inhibition of metabolism. Particularly important in renal and/or hepatic impairment due to low therapeutic ratio. The mechanism involves competitive inhibition of cytochrome p-450 metabolism. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Cyclosporine Class
- Calcineurin Inhibitor Immunosuppressant
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Diltiazem Hydrochloride and Cyclosporine occurs because competitive inhibition of cytochrome p-450 metabolism. Clinically, this means may require dosage adjustment due to competitive inhibition of metabolism. particularly important in renal and/or hepatic impairment due to low therapeutic ratio. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Diltiazem Hydrochloride and your doctor is considering prescribing Cyclosporine (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider