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Cardizem - Uses & Side Effects

Generic name: Diltiazem hydrochloride

Cardizem and Cardizem CD (a controlled release form of diltiazem) are used in the treatment of angina pectoris (chest pain usually caused by lack of oxygen to the heart due to clogged arteries). Cardizem, Cardizem CD, and Cardizem LA (an extended-release, once-a-day tablet form of diltiazem) are used to control chronic stable angina (caused by exertion). Cardizem CD and Cardizem LA are also used to treat high blood pressure. Another controlled release form, Cardizem SR, is used only in the treatment of high blood pressure. Cardizem, a calcium channel blocker, dilates blood vessels and slows the heart to reduce blood pressure and the pain of angina.

Cardizem Dosage

The recommended dose of cardizem can range from 30 mg to 360 mg daily. The capsules should not be chewed or crushed.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Uses of Cardizem

• Calcium is used for blood vessel contraction and controlling the electrical impulses within the heart.
• Diltiazem injection is used to treat irregular heartbeats.
• This medication may also be used for chest pain (angina) or high blood pressure.

Side Effects of Cardizem

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Cardizem. Side effects may include:

• Abnormally slow heartbeat (more common with Cardizem SR, Cardizem LA, and Cardizem CD), dizziness, fatigue, fluid retention, flushing (more common with Cardizem SR, Cardizem LA, and Cardizem CD), headache, nausea, rash, weakness

Warnings and precautions before taking Cardizem:

• If you have congestive heart failure or suffer from kidney or liver disease, use Cardizem with caution.
• This medication may cause your heart rate to become too slow. You should check your pulse regularly.
• Before taking diltiazem, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other calcium channel blockers (e.g., verapamil, nifedipine); or if you have any other allergies.
• This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery.
• This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Drug Interaction :- If Cardizem is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cardizem with the following:

• Beta-blockers (heart and blood pressure drugs such as Tenormin and Inderal)
  
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
  
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
  
• Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral)
  
• Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Cardizem, seek medical attention immediately.The symptoms of Cardizem overdose may include:

• Fainting, dizziness, and irregular pulse, heart failure, low blood pressure, very slow heartbeat