This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist.

Common Uses

Diltiazem is a member of the group of drugs known as benzothiazepines , which are a class of calcium channel blockers, used in the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, and some types of arrhythmia. Diltiazem is a potent vasodilator, increasing blood flow and variably decreasing the heart rate via strong depression of A-V node conduction. Its pharmacolgical activity is somewhat similar to verapamil.

How to Take

Dosage levels are determined by each individual's needs.

Cardizem: The average daily dosage is between 180 milligrams and 360 milligrams, divided into 3 or 4 smaller doses. Cardizem SR: The recommended starting dosage is 60 to 120 milligrams 2 times a day, to be increased to 240 to 360 milligrams a day.

Cardizem CD: This is a once-a-day form of Diltiazem hydrochloride. For high blood pressure, starting doses range from 180 to 240 milligrams; for angina, 120 to 180 milligrams. Cardizem LA: This is also a once-a-day drug. For high blood pressure, when used alone, doses start at 180 to 240 milligrams and may be increased to as much as 540 milligrams once daily. For angina, the starting dose is 180 milligrams once daily with increases every 7 to 14 days if necessary. Dilacor XR: This is another once-a-day drug. For high blood pressure, doses start at 180 to 240 milligrams and may be increased to as much as 540 milligrams. For angina, doses start at 120 milligrams and may be increased to 480 milligrams. Tiazac: The usual starting dose for high blood pressure is 120 to 240 milligrams once a day. After the drug has taken effect--in about 2 weeks--the dose can range from 120 to 540 milligrams. For angina, once-daily doses start at 120 to 180 milligrams and may be increased to 540 milligrams if necessary.

Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established.

Warning and Precautions

Diltiazem may cause dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Diltiazem with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

If you are taking Diltiazem for high blood pressure, remember that it does not cure the problem; it merely controls it. You may need to take a blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

If you are taking Diltiazem for angina, do not stop suddenly. This can lead to an increase in your attacks.

If you have congestive heart failure or suffer from kidney or liver disease, use Diltiazem with caution.

This medication may cause your heart rate to become too slow. You should check your pulse regularly.

The effects of Diltiazem during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Diltiazem appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Diltiazem hydrochloride is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Diltiazem hydrochloride is finished.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

The symptoms of Diltiazem overdose may include: fainting, dizziness, and irregular pulse, heart failure, low blood pressure, very slow heartbeat.

Storage

Store Diltiazem at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Do not freeze. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Diltiazem out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects: constipation; dizziness; facial flushing; headache; weakness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these side effects occur.

More Information

The information given above is a summary. Your pharmacist can provide more information about Diltiazem. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.