Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Diltiazem is prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure and the management of angina (chest pain). It belongs to a class of medications known as calcium-channel blockers. The mechanism of action involves relaxing blood vessels, reducing the workload on the heart by allowing it to pump more efficiently.
Uses and Dosage
Diltiazem is available in various forms, including tablets, extended-release tablets, and extended-release capsules, all designed for oral administration. The regular tablet is typically taken three or four times a day, while the extended-release capsule and tablet are usually taken once or twice a day. Instructions regarding whether to take diltiazem with or without food may vary, so consult your pharmacist for guidance.
Take diltiazem consistently at around the same time(s) daily. Adhere to the prescribed dosage precisely—do not take more or less or increase the frequency without your doctor’s approval.
Swallow the extended-release capsules and tablets whole; avoid chewing or crushing them.
Your doctor will likely initiate treatment with a low dose of diltiazem, gradually increasing it, but not more than once every 7 to 14 days for the extended-release tablet or capsule, and not more than once every 1 to 2 days for the regular tablet.
While diltiazem may help control chest pain if taken regularly, it does not alleviate chest pain once it has begun. Your doctor might provide a different medication to take during episodes of chest pain.
Diltiazem effectively manages high blood pressure and chest pain (angina), but it does not cure these conditions. It may take up to 2 weeks before the full benefits are felt. Even if you feel well, continue taking diltiazem as prescribed. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- flushing
- headache
- weakness
- slow heartbeat
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- constipation
- nasal congestion
- cough
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- fainting
- rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- nausea
- extreme tiredness
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- lack of energy
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- flu-like symptoms
- increase in frequency or severity of chest pain
Caution
- Before starting diltiazem, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any allergies to it or if you have any other allergies, as the product may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have certain types of heart rhythm problems, liver disease, kidney disease, heart failure, or narrowing of any part of the stomach/intestines.
- This medication may cause dizziness. The use of alcohol or marijuana can intensify this effect. Refrain from driving, using machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you can do so safely.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness, constipation, or swelling in the ankles/feet.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when clearly necessary, and discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to weigh the potential risks and benefits.
Form and Strength
Cardizem LA is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Cardizem LA tablet:
- 120 mg
FAQ
What does Cardizem LA stand for?
The LA in Cardizem LA stands for long-acting. These tablets are active in your body for longer than standard tablets.
Is Cardizem LA a beta blocker?
No, Cardizem isn’t a beta blocker. Cardizem is a calcium channel blocker (CCB). In general, beta blockers and CCBs are similar in that certain medications in both classes can treat high blood pressure and chest pain.
Resources
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6654580/#:~:text=Unlike%20other%20diltiazem%20once%E2%80%90daily,peak%E2%80%9D%20plasma%20concentration%20time%20curve
- https://www.goodrx.com/diltiazem/what-is
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/diltiazem-oral-route/description/drg-20071775
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-74894/cardizem-la-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684027.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cardizem.html
