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Diltiazem |
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What is Diltiazem and why is it prescribed? Diltiazem is used in the treatment of angina pectoris and chronic stable angina. Diltiazem is also used to treat high blood pressure. Diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker, dilates blood vessels and slows the heart to reduce blood pressure and the pain of angina. Doctors sometimes prescribe Diltiazem for loss of circulation in the fingers and toes, for involuntary movements, and to prevent heart attack. If you are taking Diltiazem for high blood pressure, remember that it does not cure the problem. If you are taking Diltiazem for angina, do not stop suddenly. This can lead to an increase in your attacks. How should you take Diltiazem? Follow your doctors directions for taking Diltiazem. Diltiazem should be taken before meals and at bedtime. Take Diltiazem 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. Diltiazem should be stored at room temperature. Protect it from moisture. Are there any Diltiazem side effects? Diltiazem side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Diltiazem side effects may include abnormally slow heartbeat, dizziness, fluid retention, flushing, headache, nausea, rash, and weakness. Less common or rare Diltiazem 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 Diltiazem? If Diltiazem 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 Diltiazem 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 Diltiazem? If you have congestive heart failure or suffer from kidney or liver disease, use Diltiazem with caution. Diltiazem 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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