Cardizem (Diltiazem)

Do's

• Take Cardizem by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 3-4 times a day, before meals and at bedtime.Avoid crushing, chewing, or breaking the tablets.
• The dose depends on your specific health condition, response to the medication, and other medications you might be taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications, including prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products.
• Take Cardizem regularly at the same times each day for maximum benefit. Your doctor might gradually increase your dosage for optimal effect.
• Cardizem is used to prevent angina attacks, not to treat them when they occur. Use other medications prescribed by your doctor for angina attacks, like sublingual nitroglycerin.

Common side effects:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Flushing
• Headache
• Weakness
• Slow heartbeat
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nasal congestion
• Cough

Serious side effects:

• Swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• 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 (angina)

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Cardizem, contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your doctor about any allergies you have. This includes allergies to Cardizem itself or any of its inactive ingredients.

Inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have:

• Certain heart rhythm problems (sick sinus syndrome/atrioventricular block)
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Heart failure

Cardizem can cause dizziness, so avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you feel safe doing so. Limit alcohol and marijuana use as they can worsen dizziness.

Before surgery or dental procedures, inform your doctor or dentist about all medications you take, including Cardizem.

Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly dizziness, constipation, and swollen ankles/feet.

Cardizem should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Cardizem passes into breast milk and may harm your baby. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.