Story perspectives

Diltiazem Linked to Higher Bleeding Risk in AF Patients

3/3/2026

Summary

Story summary

A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that among 23,000 atrial fibrillation patients, those taking diltiazem with blood thinners experienced 467 bleeding events, compared with 397 for those on metoprolol.
The study indicates an 18% increased risk of bleeding with diltiazem, especially at doses over 120 mg per day.
Dawwas urged considering bleeding risk in treatment decisions and suggested metoprolol as a safer option for higher-risk patients.

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Story summary

A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that among 23,000 atrial fibrillation patients, those taking diltiazem with blood thinners experienced 467 bleeding events, compared with 397 for those on metoprolol.
The study indicates an 18% increased risk of bleeding with diltiazem, especially at doses over 120 mg per day.
Dawwas urged considering bleeding risk in treatment decisions and suggested metoprolol as a safer option for higher-risk patients.