Description
Cardizem (diltiazem hydrochloride) is a medication used to manage chronic stable chest pain and chest pain due to coronary artery spasm.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C22H26N2O4S |
License |
US DailyMed |
Bioavailability |
40% |
Legal status |
Rx-Only |
Chemical Name |
Diltiazem |
Elimination half-life |
3–4.5 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
30mg, 60mg, 90mg, 120mg |
Pregnancy |
Not recommended |
Brands |
Cardizem |
Protein binding |
70-80% |
PubChem CID |
39186 |
MedlinePlus |
a684027 |
ChEBI |
101278 |
ATC code |
C05AE03 |
DrugBank |
DB00343 |
KEGG |
D07845 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
The instructions that come with your Cardizem prescription should be carefully read and followed. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Cardizem is available in 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, and 120 mg tablets that should not be crushed or chewed; they should be swallowed whole.
The typical starting dose is 30 mg by mouth four times a day, before meals and at bedtime.
The dosage may be adjusted depending on how well you tolerate the medication.
Ingredients
Each Cardizem tablet contains diltiazem, a calcium ion cellular influx inhibitor.
Contraindications
Do not take Cardizem if you have sick sinus syndrome unless you have a functioning ventricular pacemaker.
Do not take Cardizem if you have a second- or third-degree AV block unless you have a functioning ventricular pacemaker.
Do not take Cardizem if you have a systolic blood pressure that is less than 90 mm HG.
Do not take Cardizem if you are allergic to diltiazem or any of its other ingredients.
Do not take Cardizem if you have a heart attack and pulmonary congestion documented on X-ray when admitted to the hospital.
Cautions
- Before you start taking Cardizem, inform your doctor of:
- All the medications you take, including all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins
- Your allergies
- Your health conditions and medical history
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Taking Cardizem with beta-blockers or digitalis may affect cardiac conduction. Ask your doctor if you are unsure whether or not you take beta-blockers or digitalis.
- There is limited experience regarding the use of Cardizem by itself or with beta-blockers in patients who have impaired ventricular function.
- Cardizem can cause symptomatic low blood pressure.
- Cardizem can cause sudden liver damage, although rare and reversible when Cardizem is stopped.
Side Effects
Cardizem (diltiazem) side effects include swelling, headache, nausea, dizziness, rash, and lack of energy; however, these may not be all the possible side effects of Cardizem. It's recommended to contact your doctor right away if you develop side effects that bother you or will not resolve.
Reference:
Cardizem (diltiazem hydrochloride). Bridgewater, NJ: Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC; 2014.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 10082