Indications 

Tiazac XC is a prescription medication primarily used to treat mild-to-moderate high blood pressure (hypertension) and chronic stable angina (chest pain). It is available in the form of extended-release tablets, which are designed to release the medication slowly over a 24-hour period. This allows for once-daily dosing and helps to maintain steady levels of the medication in the body. 

Tiazac contains the active ingredient diltiazem and belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. Diltiazem works by relaxing the blood vessels, which helps to reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart. This can help to relieve chest pain and reduce the risk of heart-related complications. 

Use and Dosage 

Tiazac XC is an extended-release tablet and should not be cut, crushed, or chewed. Doing so can affect the way the medication is released into your body and may lead to an improper dosage. Swallow the tablet whole. 

Take Tiazac XC tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The recommended starting dose typically ranges from 180 mg daily to 240 mg daily. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Continue taking Tiazac XC tablets as long as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor, as abruptly discontinuing it may worsen your condition. 

Take the tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. 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 are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness or lightheadedness 
• Flushing 
• General feeling of being unwell 
• Headache 
• Heartburn 
• Nausea 
• Sore, red eyes 
• Vision changes 

Serious Side Effects  

• Changes in sleep habits 
• Chest pain 
• Cough inflammation of the nose or throat 
• Dark urine 
• Diarrhea 
• Dizziness or lightheadedness when rising from a sitting or lying position 
• Excessive eating 
• Fatigue or excessive difficulty breathing with exercise 
• Feeling sad 
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness 
• Fever 
• Frequent urination 
• Fruity breath odor 
• Increased thirst 
• Infections 
• Irregular or fast, pounding heartbeat 
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy 
• Loss of appetite 
• Nausea 
• Pale stools 
• Poor wound healing 
• Shortness of breath, leg swelling 
• Slow heartbeat 
• Sore throat 
• Swelling of ankles, feet, or lower legs  
• Thoughts of suicide 
• Unexplained weight loss 
• Unusual tiredness or weakness 
• Vomiting 
• Weight changes 
• Weight loss 
• Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes 

Cautions 

• Pre-existing medical conditions: Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions you have, especially if you have liver or kidney disease, heart rhythm disorders, low blood pressure, heart failure, or any other significant cardiovascular conditions. Tiazac XC should be used with caution in these cases, as it may require adjustment of the dosage or additional monitoring. 
• Drug interactions: Tiazac XC can interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements. Avoid potential interactions that could affect the safety and effectiveness of Tiazac XC. 
• Allergies: If you are allergic to diltiazem or any other ingredients in Tiazac XC, you should not take the tablet. Be sure to inform your doctor of any known allergies or sensitivities. 
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Tiazac XC should be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before using the tablet if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. 
• Grapefruit juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit juice or grapefruit while taking Tiazac XC, as it may interact with the medication and lead to increased levels of diltiazem in the body. 
• Driving and operating machinery: Tiazac XC may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you. 
• Heart conditions: Tiazac XC may affect heart rhythm in some individuals. If you have certain heart conditions, such as atrial fibrillation or certain types of heart block, your doctor may need to monitor you closely while taking Tiazac XC. 
• Liver or kidney impairment: Tiazac XC is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. If you have impaired liver or kidney function, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage or closely monitor your response to the medication. 
• Surgery: If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking Tiazac XC, as it may interact with certain anesthetics or other medications used during the procedure. 
• Glaucoma: Tiazac XC may worsen symptoms of glaucoma or increase intraocular pressure. If you have glaucoma or a history of increased intraocular pressure, discuss it with your doctor before using Tiazac XC. 
• Alcohol consumption: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Tiazac XC, as it may enhance the sedative effects of the medication and increase the risk of dizziness or drowsiness. 
• Elderly patients: Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of Tiazac XC. Extra caution and monitoring may be required when prescribing this medication to older adults.