Warnings & Recalls for Cardizem
Cardizem and Pregnancy
Cardizem has been listed as an FDA
pregnancy Category C medicine. The effect of Cardizem on the fetus if taken by a pregnant woman is unknown. Cardizem can transfer through breastmilk and cause adverse reactions in a baby that is nursing.
Do not use Cardizem while breastfeeding a baby. Consult your doctor before taking Cardizem if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
General Information
Cardizem is
not safe for everyone to use and
should not be used by anyone who is allergic to Diltiazem, has "sick sinus syndrome" or other particular coronary conditions such as an "AV block" without a pacemaker, hypotension (low blood pressure) or anyone who has had a heart attack in their recent past. For safety,
let your doctor know about any health conditions you may have such as:
- any allergies
- kidney or liver disease
- a history of a heart attack
- a clogged
- congestive heart failure (a condition characterized by an inability for the heart to pump sufficient blood throughout the rest of the body)
- any medicines you are taking, especially clonidine (Catapres)
- if you are pregnant, may become pregnant or are breastfeeding
Patients should know that Cardizem may affect your ability to react or think properly and you should be careful while operating machinery or any vehicles. Avoid sunlight as Cardizem can increase your sensitivity to UV rays.
Cardizem Interactions
Cardizem may not be safe to take with other medicines, particularly:
- treatments for arrhythmia
- anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine
- digoxin
- cimetidine and certain medicines for treating GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
- quinidine
- tuberculosis treatments including rifampin
- cholesterol lowering drugs
- anti-depressants and medications for anxiety
- sedatives
- antibiotics and antifungals
- beta-blocker medicines
- treatments for HIV or AIDS
Cardizem Treatment and Use
Cardizem | diltiazem is a brand name calcium channel blocker marketed by Biovail Pharmaceuticals to treat high blood pressure and certain coronary problems associated with this disorder such as chest pain (angina) or heart rhythm problems. Cardizem is generally prescribed along with a proper diet and exercise program for treatment.
How Does Cardizem Work?
Cardizem lowers blood pressure by causing the blood vessels to relax and dilate. By decreasing pressure, the heart no longer has to work as hard to pump blood throughout the body, and chest pain may be reduced. Cardizem also accounts for a higher supply of oxygen and blood being circulated through the heart.
Cardizem Dosage Information
Cardizem is available in tablet, extended-release tablet or extended-release capsule. Cardizem should be taken orally with a full glass of water. Cardizem tablets should be taken three to four times each day as prescribed while extended release tablet and capsules should only be taken once or twice each day. Be sure to take Cardizem at about the same time each day to help you remember and for the medicine to work effectively.
Cardizem should not be crushed, broken or chewed. Take this medicine as instructed by your doctor. Do not stop taking Cardizem unless your doctor has told you to do so.
