| Common Brands | Cardizem |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
Calcium channel blocker (CCB) |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Cardizem (diltiazem) is a medication that works by inhibiting the movement of calcium into the heart and blood vessel cells. Calcium is the substance that causes muscle contraction, so blocking its entry into the cells helps relax the smooth muscles of the heart and blood vessels. Therefore, it can decrease heart rate and lower blood pressure. This makes Cardizem successful in the treatment of the conditions where controlling heart rate or blood pressure is required.
Cardizem can be taken alone or in combination with other medications to help manage the conditions such as high blood pressure and certain types of heart arrhythmias. Besides the oral forms, there is also an injectable form of Cardizem for more acute conditions.
Cardizem must be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider. To attain the best results with minimum side effects, take this medication exactly as recommended by your healthcare provider in terms of dosage and usage.
Cardizem Oral Tablets may be taken with or without food. The extended-release dosage form (Cardizem CD or SR) is to be taken once a day at the same time every day.
Dosage Adjustments: Dosage may need to be adjusted based on your response to the medication. Your healthcare provider may gradually increase the dose if needed, depending on your condition and how you tolerate the medication.
Injection Form: For injectable forms of Cardizem (used in hospital settings for acute situations), it is administered by a healthcare professional who will carefully monitor your response.
Cardizem, or diltiazem, is a primarily calcium channel blocker. It blocks calcium channels in the smooth muscle of the heart and blood vessels, which relaxes and dilates the blood vessels. This relaxation decreases the force with which the heart must pump, making it easier for the heart to pump blood through the body and helps reduce the workload on the heart.
Mechanism of Action
Vasodilation: By blocking calcium from entering smooth muscle cells in the blood vessels, Cardizem causes blood vessels to relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart’s workload.
Diltiazem has a reduction effect on the heart rate in addition to dilating blood vessels. The drug reduces the conduction of electrical signals within the heart, and this sometimes results in controlling abnormal heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter.
Reduced Myocardial Oxygen Demand: As Cardizem lowers the heart rate and reduces the contractility of the heart, it decreases the amount of oxygen that the heart muscle requires, thus relieving the angina (chest pain).
Like all medications, Cardizem can cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Some of the most common side effects include:
Dizziness or lightheadedness: Especially when standing up quickly, due to a drop in blood pressure.
Edema (swelling): Swelling of the feet, ankles, or lower legs may occur, especially in individuals who are elderly or have heart failure.
Headache: Some patients may develop headache due to the hypotensive action.
Bradycardia: This is a very low heart rate (less than 60 beats per minute), which can be dangerous in some patients.
Fatigue or weakness: Some patients may feel unusually tired or weak.
Constipation: This can be a common side effect, especially with the extended-release formulations.
Rash or itching: Allergic reactions such as rashes, itching, or swelling may occur in some patients.
If you experience severe side effects like chest pain, shortness of breath, or a very slow heart rate, seek immediate medical attention.
Heart Block: Cardizem should be used with caution in individuals with heart block, as it can slow down the electrical conduction of the heart and cause further complications.
Liver and Kidney Impairment: If you have liver or kidney disease, your doctor may need to change your dose or check your liver or kidney function regularly while you are taking Cardizem.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of diltiazem during pregnancy is not well established, so it should only be used when clearly needed. It is excreted in breast milk, so nursing mothers should consult their healthcare provider before using Cardizem.
Alcohol: Alcohol can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of Cardizem, which can lead to dizziness or fainting. It is advisable to limit alcohol intake while taking this medication.
Cardizem interacts with many other drugs; hence, it is significant to report all the drugs you are taking to your doctor. Some of the significant interactions include:
Beta-blockers: The combination of diltiazem with beta-blockers, such as atenolol or metoprolol, increases the heart rate-lowering effect, which may cause dangerously low heart rate or blood pressure.
Digoxin: Diltiazem can increase digoxin levels, which can cause digoxin toxicity.
Other antihypertensive agents: The co-administration of Cardizem with other antihypertensives, like ACE inhibitors or diuretics increases the blood pressure lowering effect with a risk of hypotension.
Grapefruit: Grapefruit juice raises levels of diltiazem in the blood and enhance the risk of side effect such as dizziness, heart block
The usual dosage for Cardizem is as follows depending on the condition being treated:
Hypertension: The patient should begin at 30 mg 3-4 times daily, or 120 mg to 180 mg of the extended-release form once daily.
Angina: The patient should start with 120 mg of the sustained-release form once a day.
Arrhythmias: Diltiazem may be given intravenously in the hospital, usually as an initial bolus followed by a continuous infusion.
The dosage should be adjusted by your healthcare provider based on your condition and response to treatment.
Cardizem is a prescription medication, which means it requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. It is not available over the counter. If your healthcare provider determines that you would benefit from this medication, they will prescribe the appropriate dosage and form based on your individual health needs.
Answer: Cardizem is a brand name for diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders.
Answer: Cardizem works by relaxing the muscles of the heart and blood vessels, leading to decreased heart rate and lower blood pressure, which reduces the workload on the heart.
Answer: Cardizem is primarily used for hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and for certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation.
Answer: Common side effects include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, flushing, and mild swelling in the legs or ankles.
Answer: Cardizem can be taken orally in tablet or capsule form, or it can be given intravenously in a hospital setting.
Answer: The typical starting dose for Cardizem varies based on the condition being treated, but it often starts at 30 mg to 120 mg taken three to four times daily.
Answer: Yes, Cardizem can be taken with or without food. However, taking it consistently with food may help to maintain stable levels in your bloodstream.
Answer: Cardizem should not be used in individuals with severe hypotension, certain heart conditions (like advanced AV block), or those allergic to diltiazem or any of its components.
Answer: No, you should not suddenly stop taking Cardizem without consulting your healthcare provider, as this may lead to a worsening of your condition or a sudden increase in blood pressure.
Answer: Cardizem should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed; consult your healthcare provider for advice. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding but should be discussed with your doctor.
Answer: Yes, allergic reactions are possible. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
Answer: Yes, Cardizem can interact with several other medications, including other antihypertensives, certain statins, and medications that affect heart rhythm. Always inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
Answer: Yes, lifestyle changes such as a healthier diet, regular exercise, and stress management can complement the effects of Cardizem in managing blood pressure and heart health.
Answer: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Answer: Cardizem typically begins to lower blood pressure within a few hours after taking it, but it may take several days to see the full effect on blood pressure control.
Answer: Long-term use of Cardizem is generally safe for most patients, but regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to manage any potential side effects or health changes.
Answer: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and kidney function is typically recommended while on Cardizem.
Answer: Yes, grapefruit juice can interfere with how Cardizem is metabolized and increase the risk of side effects. It’s advisable to avoid grapefruit products while taking this medication.
Answer: Yes, Cardizem is often used to help control certain types of abnormal heart rhythms, particularly atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter.
Answer: Cardizem should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children. Always follow specific storage instructions provided on the medication package.
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