Preferred Sample Type
Suitable Specimen Types
- Serum
- EDTA Plasma
- Li Hep Plasma
Specimen Transport
First class postSample Processing in Laboratory
Place sample in toxicology rack.Sample Preparation
None requiredTurnaround Time
3 days.Sample Stability
Keep refrigerated. 4 degrees.Diltiazem
General Information
Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker used in the treatment of angina pectoris, hypertension and superventricular arrhythmias since 1973. Adult oral doses are usually within a range of 60 – 420 mg daily and are administered in 1 – 2 portions.
The most common adverse reactions for diltiazem include weakness, edema, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and rash. In overdosage, bradycadia, hypotension, cardiac failure and death may occur.
Patient Preparation
For TDM, sample should be taken prior to dose.
If toxicity is suspected, take sample at earliest opportunity
Notes
Diltiazem measured by HPLC-DAD.
Please note this assay is not currently UKAS accredited
Reference Range
Therapeutic use of diltiazem is typically associated with concentrations between 0.05 to 0.4 mg/L. Toxicity is generally associated with concentrations > 0.8 mg/L. (Clarke's Analysis of Drugs & Poisons, Third Edition).
Specifications
- EQA Scheme?: Yes
- EQA Status: LGC QUARTZ, LGC CLIN TOX