Clinical decision-support only. For use by licensed dental professionals. Not a substitute for professional judgment or a complete drug reference. Always verify with primary sources.
← Back to search
Medication

Diltiazem

Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine)

Brand names: Cardizem, Tiazac

Oral health effects

  • Gingival overgrowth

    Non-dihydropyridine CCB also associated with gingival overgrowth, though less commonly than nifedipine.

    Mechanism: Altered calcium flux in gingival fibroblasts with reduced collagen degradation; plaque acts as a co-factor.

    Clinical management: Optimize plaque control and recall frequency; discuss substitution with the physician for significant cases; surgical reduction if persistent.

Sources

  1. Calcium channel blocker-induced gingival enlargement. Livada R, Shiloah J. Journal of human hypertension, 2014.
  2. Drug-Induced Gingival Overgrowth-Molecular Aspects of Drug Actions. Droździk A, Droździk M. International journal of molecular sciences, 2023.