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Cardizem |
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What is Cardizem and why is it prescribed? Cardizem and Cardizem CD are used in the treatment of angina pectoris and chronic stable angina. Cardizem CD is also used to treat high blood pressure. Another controlled release form, Cardizem SR, is used only in the treatment of high blood pressure. Cardizem, a calcium channel blocker, dilates blood vessels and slows the heart to reduce blood pressure and the pain of angina. Doctors sometimes prescribe Cardizem for loss of circulation in the fingers and toes, for involuntary movements, and to prevent heart attack. If you are taking Cardizem for high blood pressure, remember that it does not cure the problem. If you are taking Cardizem for angina, do not stop suddenly. This can lead to an increase in your attacks. How should you take Cardizem? Follow your doctors directions for taking Cardizem. Cardizem should be taken before meals and at bedtime. Cardizem CD and Cardizem SR should be swallowed whole; do not chew, crush, or divide. Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms have disappeared. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Cardizem should be stored at room temperature. Protect it from moisture. Are there any Cardizem side effects? Cardizem side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Cardizem side effects may include abnormally slow heartbeat, dizziness, fluid retention, flushing, headache, nausea, rash, and weakness. Less common or rare Cardizem side effects may include abnormal dreams, allergic reaction, altered way of walking, amnesia, anemia, angina, blood disorders, congestive heart failure, constipation, cough, depression, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, drowsiness, dry mouth, excessive urination at night, eye irritation, fainting, flu symptoms, hair loss, hallucinations, heart attack, high blood sugar, hives, impotence, increased output of pale urine, indigestion, infection, irregular heartbeat, itching, joint pain, labored breathing, loss of appetite, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, muscle cramps, nasal congestion or inflammation, nervousness, nosebleed, pain, personality change, pounding heartbeat, rapid heartbeat, reddish or purplish spots on skin, ringing in ears, sexual difficulties, skin inflammation/flaking or peeling, sensitivity to light, sleepiness, sore throat, taste alteration, thirst, tingling or pins and needles, tremor, vision changes, vomiting, welts, and weight increase. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Cardizem? If Cardizem is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cardizem with Beta-blockers (heart and blood pressure drugs such as Tenormin and Inderal), Carbamazepine (Tegretol), Cimetidine (Tagamet), Cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral), Digoxin (Lanoxin), Lovastatin (Mevacor), Midazolam (Versed), Rifampin (Rifadin), or Triazolam (Halcion). Are there any special warnings about Cardizem? If you have congestive heart failure or suffer from kidney or liver disease, use Cardizem with caution. Cardizem may cause your heart rate to become too slow. You should check your pulse regularly. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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