Which of the following is a contraindication for Cardizem?

Cardizem, also known as diltiazem, is a calcium channel blocker often used to treat conditions such as atrial fibrillation and hypertension. However, it has specific contraindications due to its effects on the heart's conduction system and blood pressure.

A history of Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a contraindication for the use of Cardizem because this syndrome involves an abnormal electrical pathway in the heart that can lead to an increased risk of rapid heart rates. In patients with WPW, the use of Cardizem could potentially exacerbate pre-existing arrhythmias or facilitate the development of dangerous heart rhythms, including those characterized by rapid ventricular responses. The presence of these accessory pathways means that typical rate-controlling medications can have unpredictable and potentially detrimental effects on cardiac function.

In contrast, hypertension, atrial flutter, and bradycardia do not inherently prevent the use of Cardizem. While these conditions require careful consideration and monitoring during treatment, they do not pose the same level of risk as a history of WPW does. Thus, knowing this critical point about WPW is essential for healthcare providers to prevent complications associated with the administration of medications like Cardizem.