What is Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride) used for?

Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride) is an oral calcium channel blocker prescribed to treat angina, hypertension, or arrhythmias. The medications operates by relaxing the blood vessels in the body to allow easier circulation, lower blood pressure, and reduce the amount of work required by the heart. Your physician may also prescribe it to treat other unlisted conditions.

How should I use Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride)?

Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride) should be used according to your physician's instructions to get the safest and most effective results from treatment. The typical dosage is one tablet taken three to four times each day, but your particular directions will depend on the condition being treated, the severity of your symptoms, and your current health. These should be swallowed with a large glass of water along with a meal to prevent nausea. Do not split, chew, or crush the tablets before use to avoid unintentionally destroying or altering the effects of their contents. Ask your physician any questions you have about using the medicine to ensure the correct administration.

What are the side effects of Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride)?

Side effects that may occur while using Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride) include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Upset stomach or mild diarrhea
• Mild nausea
• Flushing of the skin
• Sore throat, coughing, or cold symptoms

More serious side effects that may require emergency medical attention are faintness, bradycardia, unusual swelling of the hands or feet, a severe skin reaction, trouble breathing, darkened urine, discolored stools, or jaundice. Tell your physician about any unusual or worrying symptoms you experience to make sure the correct alterations are made to your regimen to prevent further complications including lower doses or reduced frequency of application.

Please Note

Do not begin using Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride) if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, lactose intolerant, if the patient is a child, if you have uncontrolled heart failure, porphyrias, 2nd or 3rd degree heart block, slowed heart rate, or left ventricular dysfunction. Also disclose if you are elderly or have heart failure, 1st degree heart block, bradycardia, decreased kidney function, or decreased liver function. These conditions may cause unexpected problems during treatment requiring alterations to your regimen.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Cardizem CD (Diltiazem Hydrochloride). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.