Why is this medication prescribed?

Diltiazem is prescribed for several cardiovascular conditions, primarily to manage high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain (angina), and certain heart rhythm disorders. Here’s a breakdown of its primary uses:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Diltiazem is commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. By relaxing blood vessels, it helps to improve blood flow and reduce the workload on the heart, thus lowering blood pressure.
• Angina (Chest Pain): Diltiazem is used to treat chronic stable angina, a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscles due to narrowed coronary arteries. By dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the heart, Diltiazem helps to relieve angina symptoms and prevent episodes of chest pain.
• Heart Rhythm Disorders: Diltiazem is also prescribed to manage certain heart rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter. These conditions involve abnormal electrical signals in the upper chambers of the heart (atria), leading to irregular heartbeats. Diltiazem helps to slow down the heart rate and stabilize the heart rhythm in these situations.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Diltiazem is typically used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Diltiazem depends on the condition being treated and individual patient factors. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Diltiazem is usually taken orally in the form of extended-release capsules or tablets. The medication should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
• Frequency: Diltiazem is typically taken either once or twice daily, as prescribed by the healthcare provider. It’s important to take it regularly and at the same times each day for the best results.
• Duration: The duration of Diltiazem treatment varies depending on the condition being treated and individual response to the medication. It’s essential to continue taking Diltiazem even if you feel well, as stopping suddenly can lead to worsening of symptoms.
• Special Instructions: Follow any special instructions provided by your doctor, such as avoiding certain foods, beverages, or activities that may interact with Diltiazem. Also, inform your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you are taking, as they may interact with Diltiazem.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate may be necessary while taking Diltiazem to ensure it is effectively managing your condition.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Diltiazem, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about how to use Diltiazem or if you experience any side effects while taking it.

Other uses for this medicine

Diltiazem may also be prescribed for other off-label uses. Some of these include:

• Raynaud’s phenomenon: Diltiazem may be used to improve blood flow to the fingers and toes in individuals with Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition characterized by decreased blood flow to the extremities in response to cold or stress.
• Esophageal spasm: Diltiazem may be used to relax the smooth muscles of the esophagus, helping to alleviate symptoms of esophageal spasm, such as chest pain or difficulty swallowing.
• Migraine prophylaxis: Some studies suggest that Diltiazem may be effective in preventing migraines, particularly in individuals who experience migraine with aura.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow while taking Diltiazem, here are some important points:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to Diltiazem or any other medications.
• Medical history: Inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have a history of heart problems, liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, or certain muscle disorders.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Diltiazem should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as its safety in these situations is not well-established.
• Driving and operating machinery: Diltiazem may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Grapefruit interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Diltiazem, as it may increase the levels of the medication in your bloodstream, leading to potentially harmful side effects.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Diltiazem, as it may exacerbate certain side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness.
• Drug interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, as Diltiazem may interact with certain drugs, including other blood pressure medications, antifungal medications, antibiotics, and HIV/AIDS medications.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance while taking Diltiazem to ensure safe and effective treatment.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Diltiazem generally involve avoiding grapefruit or grapefruit juice due to its potential interaction with the medication. Grapefruit can increase the levels of Diltiazem in your bloodstream, leading to potentially harmful side effects. Other than that, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Diltiazem.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Diltiazem, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Diltiazem, like any medication, can cause side effects in some people. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to notify your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms. Some common side effects of Diltiazem include:

• Dizziness: Diltiazem can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of Diltiazem.
• Flushing: Some people may experience flushing or warmth in the face or skin.
• Swelling: Diltiazem may cause swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands due to fluid retention.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a possible side effect of Diltiazem.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea or stomach discomfort while taking Diltiazem.
• Constipation: Diltiazem can sometimes cause constipation as a side effect.
• Low blood pressure: Diltiazem may cause a drop in blood pressure, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position, leading to symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Bradycardia: In some cases, Diltiazem may slow down the heart rate, leading to bradycardia (a heart rate that is slower than normal).
• Abnormal liver function tests: Rarely, Diltiazem may cause changes in liver function tests, which would be detected through blood tests.
• Allergic reactions: While uncommon, allergic reactions to Diltiazem can occur, presenting as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s essential to report any side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, if you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication if necessary.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Diltiazem at room temperature away from light and moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets: Diltiazem should be stored in a secure location to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets.
• Do not share medication: Diltiazem is prescribed for your specific condition and should not be shared with others.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Diltiazem properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on the proper disposal method.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose of Diltiazem or experience symptoms such as fainting, severe dizziness, slow or irregular heartbeat, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Call emergency services: If someone has overdosed and is experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services (such as 911 in the United States) for assistance.

What other information should I know?

• Regular monitoring: Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and liver function tests while taking Diltiazem.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Diltiazem and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Lifestyle changes: Diltiazem is often prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for hypertension or other cardiovascular conditions. Follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and smoking cessation.
• Medical ID: Consider wearing a medical identification bracelet or necklace indicating that you are taking Diltiazem, especially if you have a history of heart problems or other medical conditions that may require emergency treatment.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and to ask any questions you may have about Diltiazem or its use. If you have concerns or experience any adverse effects while taking Diltiazem, contact your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.