Diltiazem

Diltiazem is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders. It belongs to a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Diltiazem relaxes blood vessels in the body and heart, thereby improving the blood flow. By decreasing the heart rate, this medication helps lower the blood pressure.

Recommended Dosage – Discount Prescription Drug Diltiazem

The dosage of Diltiazem prescribed to each patient will vary. Always follow your physician’s instructions and/or the directions on the prescription drug label.

Missed Dose of Diltiazem

If your physician has instructed or directed you to take Diltiazem medication in a regular schedule and you have missed a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the doses unless otherwise directed.

Overdose of Diltiazem

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Diltiazem, seek medical attention immediately. Some of the overdose symptoms of this drug are light-headedness, shortness of breath, slow heartbeat, and fainting.

Side Effects of Diltiazem

Like other medicines, Diltiazem can cause some side effects. If they do occur, the side effects of Diltiazem are most likely to be minor and temporary. However, some may be serious and may require the individual to inform the doctor or visit the nearest hospital immediately.

It is pertinent to note that side effects of Diltiazem cannot be anticipated. If any side effects of Diltiazem develop or change in intensity, the doctor should be informed as soon as possible.

Diltiazem can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, weakness, drowsiness, flushing, and headache. Some of the serious side effects of this drug are slow heartbeats, red skin rash, shortness of breath, rapid weight gain, dark urine, clay-colored stools, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. This is not a complete list of all side effects. Do concur with your doctor and follow his directions completely when you are taking Diltiazem.

Drug Interaction – Cheap Prescription Drug Diltiazem

Usually drug interactions occur when it is taken with another drug or with food. Before you take a medication for a particular ailment, you should inform the health expert about intake of any other medications including non-prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines that may increase the effect of Diltiazem, and dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and herbal, so that the doctor can warn you of any possible drug interactions.

Diltiazem can interact with sedatives, antibiotics, antifungal medications, and HIV/AIDS medicines.

Also, tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks containing caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What drug(s) may interact with Diltiazem?

• Amiodarone
• Atenolol
• Bisoprolol
• Buspirone
• Carbamazepine
• Cimetidine
• Clarithromycin
• Cyclosporine
• Digoxin
• Itraconazole
• Lovastatin
• Metoprolol
• Propranolol
• Quinidine
• Rifampin
• Sotalol
• Timolol
• Voriconazole

It may be noted that drugs other than those listed above may also interact with Diltiazem.

Before using Diltiazem, ask the following questions to the doctor:

Is it possible for me to take Diltiazem with other drugs?
Should certain beverages, foods and other products be avoided when I take Diltiazem?
What are the possible drug interactions of Diltiazem?
How will Diltiazem work in my body?
How should Diltiazem be taken?
How to reduce the risk of Diltiazem drug interactions and side effects?

Warnings and Precautions

The health and medical information provided here is intended to supplement and not substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacists or other health care professional. Before using Diltiazem, inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, and congestive heart failure. Also, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment, or breast-feeding. While using this medicine, limit alcoholic beverages. Do not drive, use machinery, or perform any activity that requires alertness.