Medications and Drugs

Heart Disease (Coronary Artery Disease) Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: DILTIAZEM 12 HOUR SUSTAINED ACTION CAPSULE - ORAL (dill-TIE-uh-zem)

BRAND NAME(S): Cardizem SR

Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium is involved in blood vessel contraction and in controlling the electrical impulses within the heart. By blocking calcium, diltiazem relaxes and widens blood vessels and can normalize heart rates. Diltiazem is used to treat chest pain (angina) or high blood pressure.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to treat irregular heartbeats.

HOW TO USE: The capsule(s) may be taken without regard to meals twice daily or as directed. Swallow whole. Do not open, chew or crush the capsule. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without your doctor's permission. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

SIDE EFFECTS: This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days. Avoid activities requiring alertness. When you sit or lie down for a while, get up slowly to allow your body to adjust and minimize dizziness. You may also experience bloating, heartburn, muscle cramps, headache, flushing, nasal congestion, sore throat, constipation or diarrhea. Inform your doctor if they become bothersome. Notify your doctor if you develop: breathing difficulties, swelling of the hands or feet, an irregular heartbeat. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: heart problems, liver problems, lung diseases, allergies (especially drug allergies). Limit intake of alcohol while taking this drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. If there is no alternative to using this drug you should discontinue breast-feeding. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.