Capsule SR, Tablet, Tablet SR

Apotex, Biovail, Biovail Pharmaceuticals, Generic, Genpharm, Hoechst Marion Roussel, UK

Cardizem (diltiazem) is used for the treatment of high blood pressure.

Do not take Cardizem (diltiazem) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Cardizem (diltiazem) or to similar medications.

Before using Cardizem (diltiazem), tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription medicine if you have any other medical condition like heart disease, lung disease, impairment of kidney or liver functions, if you have constipation problems, difficulty swallowing (or narrowing of the esophagus), heart or blood vessel disease, heart rhythm disturbances such as sick sinus syndrome, ventricular arrhythmias, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, or Lown-Ganong-Levine syndrome, liver or kidney disease, neuromuscular disease such as muscular dystrophy, slow or irregular heartbeat, stomach problems (obstruction)

Cardizem (diltiazem) can make you less mentally alert than usual. Do not drive, use machinery or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how Cardizem (diltiazem) affects you. Alcohol can increase the side effects of Cardizem (diltiazem). Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Other: Skin peeling, sleepiness, spotty menstruation, sweating, tingling or pins and needles, upset stomach

How much medicine you take and how often you take it depend on many factors, including the condition being treated and the age and weight of the patient. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of Cardizem (diltiazem) you are taking, talk with your health care provider. You must take Cardizem (diltiazem) regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of the drug; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Cardizem (diltiazem) does not cure blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control. Do not stop taking Cardizem (diltiazem) without checking with your health care provider. Patients with previous medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking Cardizem (diltiazem). Do not take more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider. Do not take any other over-the-counter or prescription medications without talking with your health care provider. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your health care provider. If more than one dose is missed, contact your health care provider or pharmacist. Take Cardizem (diltiazem) with food to reduce stomach upset. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take Cardizem (diltiazem) with grapefruit juice.

Store Cardizem (diltiazem) at room temperature in a cool dry place, protect from heat and light. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets.