Indications  

Cardizem CD is a prescribed medication for hypertension treatment, either as a standalone therapy or in combination with other antihypertensive drugs. 

Cardizem CD is also indicated for managing chronic stable angina and angina caused by coronary artery spasms. 

Classified as a calcium channel blocker, Cardizem CD works by inducing relaxation in the blood vessels, reducing the strain on the heart’s pumping activity. It also enhances the delivery of oxygenated blood to the heart. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Cardizem CD and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or concerns. 

Cardizem CD dosage is individualized and adjusted based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. Strictly follow your doctor’s instructions, which may include gradual dosage adjustments. 

Typically, Cardizem CD is taken once a day as directed by the doctor. Swallow the capsule whole and avoid crushing or chewing it, as this could result in the rapid release of the entire drug and potentially heighten the risk of side effects. 

Take Cardizem CD regularly around the same time(s) daily to achieve optimal results. 

Continue taking this medication even if you feel well, as individuals with high blood pressure often do not experience symptoms of illness. 

Inform your physician if your condition deteriorates, such as an aggravation of chest pain or an elevation in routine blood pressure measurements. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Cardizem CD. Notify your physician if you experience any persistent or worsened side effects. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Sensation of dizziness 
• Fatigue or weakness 

Serious Side Effects 

• Signs of liver problems: 
  • Dark urine 
  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Upset stomach or stomach pain 
  • Light-colored stools 
  • Vomiting 
  • Yellow skin or eyes 
• Severe dizziness or fainting 
• Slow heartbeat 
• New or worsening abnormal heartbeat 

Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any of the above-mentioned severe symptoms. 

In some cases, a severe skin reaction (Stevens-Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis) may occur, causing serious and potentially irreversible health problems and even death. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever) 
• Red or irritated eyes 
• Sores in your mouth, throat, nose, or eyes 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic reactions to Cardizem CD are uncommon; however, seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Hives 
• Itching 
• Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever 
• Wheezing 
• Tightness in the chest or throat 
• Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking 
• Unusual hoarseness 
• Mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Cardizem CD. Tell your doctor promptly if you experience any other effects not mentioned above. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Cardizem CD, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to diltiazem, other medicines, or any ingredients present in Cardizem CD capsules. 

To ensure Cardizem CD is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Certain types of heart rhythm problems (e.g., sick sinus syndrome/atrioventricular block) 
• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Heart failure 

Cardizem CD may interact with other medications, including digoxin and fingolimod. 

To mitigate the risk of such drug interactions, inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the products and medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Certain medications can impact the elimination of Cardizem CD from the body, potentially influencing its effectiveness. Examples of such medications include: 

• Cimetidine 
• St. John’s wort 
• Azole antifungals like ketoconazole 
• Macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin 

• Rifamycins, including rifabutin and rifampin 

Cardizem CD can impede the elimination of other medications from the body, potentially impacting their efficacy. Examples of drugs that may be affected include: 

• Aprepitant/fosaprepitant 
• Asunaprevir 
• Buspirone 
• Colchicine 
• Elacestrant 
• Flibanserin 
• Ivabradine 
• Lomitapide 
• Certain benzodiazepines (i.e., triazolam or midazolam) 
• Others 

Seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist on the safe usage of cough-and-cold medications, diet aids, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, as some of them may contain ingredients that can potentially increase your heart rate or blood pressure. 

Refrain from engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you have assessed the impact of Cardizem CD on your alertness levels. 

Due to a lack of well-controlled studies in pregnant women, the use of Cardizem CD should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. 

Diltiazem is excreted into breast milk and may adversely affect nursing infants. If the use of Cardizem is necessary, alternative infant feeding methods should be considered.