Does diltiazem inhibit the inflammatory response in cardiopulmonary bypass?

Abstract

Diltiazem inhibits the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-6, which is strong evidence for its anti-inflammatory effect. It is clinically important to inhibit the inflammation that takes place during CPB and the inflammation of myocardium encountered after ischemia-reperfusion, since these effect the clinical status of the patient after CPB, as well as myocardial functions.