Cardizem CD is a brand name for Diltiazem Extended-Release (ER), a medication used primarily to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and angina (chest pain). Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that helps relax and widen blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and decreases the heart's workload.
Product Highlights
- Used for the management of hypertension and chronic stable angina. It is also used for controlling heart rate in conditions such as atrial fibrillation.
- Diltiazem works by inhibiting calcium ions from entering cardiac and smooth muscle cells through calcium channels. This results in the relaxation of blood vessels and decreased heart rate, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Effective in reducing elevated blood pressure in patients with hypertension.
- Helps prevent angina attacks by improving blood flow to the heart and reducing the heart's oxygen demand.
- Useful in managing abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation by controlling the heart rate.
- Provides sustained release of the medication, allowing for once-daily dosing which can improve adherence.
Direction of Use
- The usual starting dose is 120 mg to 240 mg once daily. Dosage adjustments may be made based on individual response and condition.
- Take the tablets orally with or without food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Do not chew or crush the extended-release tablets.
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and possibly heart rhythm is recommended to assess the effectiveness and adjust the dose if necessary.
Safety Concerns
- May include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, constipation, or rash.
- Can include severe hypotension (low blood pressure), bradycardia (slow heart rate), worsening heart failure, or significant allergic reactions. Severe side effects require immediate medical attention.
- Diltiazem can interact with other medications, including those that affect heart rate or blood pressure. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications being taken.
Avoid Cardizem CD (Diltiazem ER) If
- You have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Diltiazem or other calcium channel blockers.
- Use with caution in severe heart failure or certain other cardiac conditions, as Diltiazem can affect heart function.
- Caution is advised if you have severe liver impairment, as Diltiazem is metabolized by the liver.
- Consult with a healthcare provider regarding use during pregnancy. It should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks, as safety during pregnancy has not been well established.
