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Generic Name: Diltiazem
Brand Name(s):
Information updated: April 1, 2000
Overview
Cardizem CD belongs to a class of medicines called calcium channel blockers.
Because of their safety and effectiveness, these drugs have helped revolutionize
the treatment of angina and high blood pressure.
Cardizem CD is
prescribed to treat high blood pressure alone or in combination with other blood
pressure pills. It is also helpful for certain forms of angina.
Other
brand names for diltiazem include Cardizem SR, Dilacor XR and Tiazac.
Side Effects and Interactions
Cardizem CD is usually well tolerated with few
side effects, but some people react to this drug with fluid retention, leading
to swelling of the legs, feet or hands.
Headache, dizziness, loss of
strength, slowed heart rate, heart problems or flushing may also occur.
Other side effects include nausea, rash, constipation, increased blood
sugar, sexual difficulties and depression.
The skin may be especially
sensitive to sunburn, and precautions should be taken to avoid ultraviolet
exposure. Report any symptoms or suspected side effects to your physician
promptly.
Cardizem CD can interact with a number of other drugs,
including several that are used to treat high blood pressure or heart
conditions, the anticonvulsant Tegretol,
the ulcer medicine Tagamet,
lithium and the transplant drug Sandimmune.
The herb St. John's wort might speed elimination of diltiazem from the body, which could
reduce its effectiveness.
Check with your doctor and pharmacist to make
sure Cardizem CD is safe in combination with any other drugs or herbs you
take.
Special Precautions
People with liver or kidney disease should take Cardizem CD under close medical supervision and monitoring.
Some people may feel dizzy if they sit or stand up suddenly. Low blood pressure or a recent heart attack also signal serious problems.
Taking the Medicine
Cardizem CD may be taken with or without meals, once a day.
Do not stop taking Cardizem
CD suddenly, as this could lead to complications. Your doctor will tell you how to taper off
gradually if you no longer need this medication.
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio.
© 2000