Continuous intravenous diltiazem infusion for short-term ventricular rate control in children

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Published on: December 11, 2017

R H Pass1, L Liberman, M Al-Fayaddh

  • 1Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Babies and Children's Hospital of New York, New York Presbyterian Medical Center, 10032-3784, USA. Pediheart@aol.com

The American Journal of Cardiology
|September 29, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Intravenous diltiazem effectively controlled rapid heart rates in pediatric patients with atrial tachyarrhythmias. This medication provided safe and consistent temporary ventricular rate management for all participants.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Clinical Pharmacology

Background:

  • Atrial tachyarrhythmias are common in pediatric patients.
  • Rapid ventricular response can lead to hemodynamic instability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravenous diltiazem for rate control in pediatric atrial tachyarrhythmias.

Main Methods:

  • Intravenous diltiazem was administered to 10 pediatric patients.
  • Patients had primary atrial tachyarrhythmias with rapid ventricular response.

Main Results:

  • Rapid and consistent ventricular rate control was achieved in all patients.
  • Diltiazem administration was safe for temporary rate management.

Conclusions:

  • Intravenous diltiazem is an effective and safe option for temporary ventricular rate control in pediatric patients with atrial tachyarrhythmias.

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