Why is this medication prescribed?

Taztia XT is a brand name for diltiazem, which is a calcium channel blocker used to treat various cardiovascular conditions. It is commonly prescribed for the following reasons:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Taztia XT helps relax and widen blood vessels, reducing blood pressure.
• Chronic Stable Angina: It can be used to manage chest pain (angina) in patients with coronary artery disease.
• Chronic Atrial Fibrillation or Atrial Flutter: Taztia XT may be prescribed to control heart rhythm in certain cardiac arrhythmias.
• Chronic Supraventricular Tachycardia: It can be used to manage certain rapid heart rhythms originating above the heart’s ventricles.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how Taztia XT should be used, but it’s essential to follow your doctor’s specific instructions:

• Dosage: The dosage of Taztia XT can vary depending on the individual’s condition. It is typically taken once daily. The tablets are designed to release the medication slowly over a 24-hour period, providing consistent blood pressure control.
• Administration: Taztia XT should be taken with a full glass of water, either with or without food. It’s important to swallow the tablet whole without crushing or chewing it, as breaking the tablet may interfere with the extended-release mechanism.
• Consistency: Take Taztia XT at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your bloodstream.
• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always follow your doctor’s prescription and instructions. They may adjust your dosage based on your response to the medication and any potential side effects.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may monitor your blood pressure and overall health regularly while you are on Taztia XT to ensure that the medication is working effectively and to check for any potential side effects.

It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions you may have before starting Taztia XT, as it can interact with other drugs and may not be suitable for everyone. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Always consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding your specific medical situation.

Other uses for this medicine

Apart from its primary use in treating hypertension and angina, Taztia XT (diltiazem) may be prescribed for other cardiovascular conditions, such as:

• Atrial Fibrillation or Atrial Flutter: Diltiazem may be used to control heart rhythm in certain cases of irregular heartbeats like atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
• Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT): It may be prescribed to manage certain types of rapid heart rhythms originating above the heart’s ventricles.
• Coronary Artery Disease: Diltiazem might be used to improve blood flow in individuals with coronary artery disease.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to consider when using Taztia XT include:

• Inform Your Doctor: Before starting Taztia XT, inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, medical conditions, or medications you are currently taking. This includes over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.
• Liver or Kidney Problems: If you have liver or kidney disease, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage of Taztia XT. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be necessary.
• Heart Conditions: Let your doctor know if you have any pre-existing heart conditions, especially if you have heart failure or certain types of heart block.
• Low Blood Pressure: Caution is needed if you have low blood pressure or are prone to episodes of dizziness or fainting. Diltiazem can cause a decrease in blood pressure.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The use of Taztia XT during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be discussed with your doctor, as it may have potential risks.
• Grapefruit Interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Taztia XT, as it can interact with the medication and lead to increased levels of diltiazem in the bloodstream.
• Surgery: If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesia provider that you are taking Taztia XT.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption, as it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of Taztia XT and increase the risk of side effects.

Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and guidance. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Taztia XT, contact your healthcare provider promptly. This information is not exhaustive, and it’s important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice based on your individual health circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Taztia XT, but it’s generally recommended to follow a healthy and balanced diet. However, there is a significant interaction between Taztia XT and grapefruit or grapefruit juice. Grapefruit can increase the levels of diltiazem in your blood, leading to potential side effects. It’s advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit products while taking Taztia XT.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Taztia XT, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Taztia XT (diltiazem) may cause various side effects, and it’s important to be aware of them. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may have different reactions. Common side effects of Taztia XT include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Diltiazem can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches as a side effect of the medication.
• Flushing or warmth in the face: Diltiazem may cause a sensation of warmth or flushing, particularly in the face.
• Swelling in the ankles or feet: Fluid retention is a possible side effect, leading to swelling in the lower extremities.
• Constipation or upset stomach: Gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation or stomach upset may occur.
• Fatigue or weakness: Some individuals may feel tired or weak while taking Taztia XT.

Less common, but potentially serious side effects include:

• Irregular heartbeat: Diltiazem can affect the electrical conduction in the heart, potentially leading to irregular heart rhythms.
• Worsening heart failure: In rare cases, diltiazem may worsen heart failure symptoms.
• Liver problems: Elevated liver enzymes may occur, and very rarely, severe liver damage may occur.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions, including rash, itching, or swelling.
• Low blood pressure: In some individuals, Taztia XT can cause a significant drop in blood pressure.

It’s important to contact your healthcare provider if you experience any severe or persistent side effects. Additionally, if you notice symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue (indicative of an allergic reaction), seek medical attention immediately.

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual responses to medication can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and report any unusual or concerning symptoms promptly. If you have specific concerns about Taztia XT or its side effects, discuss them with your healthcare professional.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Taztia XT:

• Storage: Keep Taztia XT (diltiazem) in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused medication properly. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so. Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose of Taztia XT, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Overdose symptoms may include:

• Fainting
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Slow or irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Confusion or loss of consciousness

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may perform regular blood pressure checks and other monitoring to assess the effectiveness of Taztia XT and to check for potential side effects.
• Avoid Grapefruit: As mentioned earlier, avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Taztia XT, as it can interact with the medication and lead to increased levels of diltiazem in the bloodstream.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Certain medications may interact with Taztia XT.
• Medical and Dental Procedures: If you are scheduled for any surgical or dental procedures, inform your healthcare provider and dentist that you are taking Taztia XT. You may need to adjust the timing of the medication around the procedure.
• Regular Follow-ups: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to discuss your response to the medication, any side effects, and potential adjustments to your treatment plan.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Taztia XT and consult with them if you have any questions or concerns. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.