Cardizem

What is Cardizem?

Cardizem is used for the treatment of chest pain caused mostly by lack of oxygen to the heart.  This condition, called angina pectoris, is caused by clogged arteries.  Cardizem is a brand name for the drug diltiazem, and it comes in four different forms.  Cardizem CD is a controlled release formula, Cardizem LA is an extended-release once per day tablet, and Cardizem SR is only used for treating high blood pressure.

Cardizem is a calcium channel blocker, which dilates blood vessels and reduces the heart rate reducing blood pressure and the pain of angina and chronic stable angina.  Cardizem is also prescribed for Raynaud's phenomenon, which appears as a loss of circulation in the toes and fingers.

Doctors often prescribe Cardizem to prevent heart attack and for treatment of involuntary movements as caused by tardive dyskinesia. 

Cardizem Drip?

If a case is severe enough, the patient might need to be placed under hospital care and Cardizem might need to be applied through an IV.  Patients who have had surgery for heart or artery problems are often placed on Cardizem until their conditions improve.  This is a leading reason why more patients survive heart surgery and attacks. 

Cardizem Atrial Fibrillation:

Cardizem is an important asset in the treatment of atrial fibrillation.  Cardiac conditions associated with this malady are rheumatic mitral valve disease, coronary artery disease, hypertension, and congestive heart failure.  Cardizem is often used by patients who have hyperthyroidism, hypoxia, are recovering from surgery, or are intoxicated. 

Cardizem Precautions:

If you take Cardizem for blood pressure, you may need to take it for the rest of your life because it is not a cure.  If you decide to stop taking Cardizem, especially if you have angina, do not stop all at once because your attacks may increase. 

Cardizem should be taken prior to eating and before going to bed.  It should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or split.  Take Cardizem as prescribed by your doctor no matter if your symptoms have disappeared or not. 

Do not double up on Cardizem dosage because you miss taking a pill on time.  If it is only a short time after the dose was to be taken, you can take it late, but if it is almost time to take another, skip the dose. 

Do not take Cardizem if you have low blood pressure or an allergic reaction to the medication.  If you suffer from sick sinus syndrome, do not take Cardizem.  If you have a second or third degree heart block, you shouldn't take Cardizem until you have a ventricular pacemaker installed.  Cardizem should not be used in the presence of lung congestion or after a recent heart attack. 

Cardizem Side Effects

You may experience side effects when taking Cardizem that include dizziness, fluid retention, fatigue, headache, rash, nausea, and weakness. 

Side effects that are more common with Cardizem CD, Cardizem SR, and Cardizem LA are abnormally slow heart rate and flushing.  Always consult your physician when you have uncommon situations with your body whenever you take prescription medicines.