diltiazem 12-hour sustained-action capsule - oral, Cardizem SR
GENERIC NAME: DILTIAZEM 12-HOUR SUSTAINED-ACTION CAPSULE - ORAL (dill-TIE-uh-zem)
BRAND NAME(S): Cardizem SR
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Diltiazem 12-hour sustained-action capsules are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Diltiazem is called a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels in the body and heart so blood can flow more easily. This effect lowers blood pressure. Diltiazem may also lower your heart rate.OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.Diltiazem is also used to prevent chest pain (angina). When used regularly, diltiazem can decrease the number and severity of episodes of chest pain from angina. Diltiazem may also be used to control your heart rate if you have a fast/irregular heartbeat (such as atrial fibrillation).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can release all of the drug at once and may increase your risk of side effects.Your doctor may gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.If this medication is used for angina, this medication must be taken regularly to be effective. It should not be used to treat angina when it occurs. Use other medications (such as nitroglycerin placed under the tongue) to relieve an angina attack as directed by your doctor. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.It may take up to 2 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (for example, your routine blood pressure readings remain high or increase).
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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