Indications 

Cardizem is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of various cardiac conditions, including chest pain (angina), hypertension (high blood pressure), and certain heart rhythm disorders such as Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia and Atrial Fibrillation/Flutter.  

This drug can be used alone or in combination with other medications to achieve the desired therapeutic effects. Cardizem is classified as an Antidysrhythmic, IV; Calcium Channel Blocker; Calcium Channel Blocker, Non-dihydropyridine, according to its pharmacological properties. 

Uses and Dosage 

The dose is determined by your medical condition, treatment response, and other medications you may be taking. Ensure that you inform your doctor and pharmacist of all the products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal remedies. Your doctor may gradually increase your dosage, adhere to your doctor’s instructions. 

Take this medication regularly to obtain maximum benefit. To assist you in remembering, take it at the same time each day. This medication must be used regularly to avoid angina and should not be used to treat angina when it occurs. As directed by your doctor, use other drugs, such as sublingual nitroglycerin, to alleviate an angina attack. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information. 

Inform your doctor if your condition worsens, such as if your chest pain intensifies or occurs more frequently. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

Signs of an allergic reaction to Cardizem that require immediate medical attention include: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 

Severe Side Effects

Contact your doctor right away if you experience any of the following: 

• Slow heartbeats 
• Pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest 
• Feeling light-headed or fainting 
• Shortness of breath, swelling, or rapid weight gain (symptoms of heart problems) 
• Nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (symptoms of liver problems) 
• Severe skin reaction, such as fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness and weakness 
• Headache 
• Nausea 
• Rash 

Caution 

Prior to taking diltiazem, disclose any potential allergic reactions to your physician or pharmacist, as well as any known allergies to other substances. This product may contain inactive components that could trigger allergic reactions or other adverse effects. Further details can be obtained by consulting your pharmacist. 

Inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, particularly if you have certain types of heart rhythm problems (such as sick sinus syndrome/atrioventricular block), liver disease, kidney disease, or heart failure, before using this medication. 

This medication may cause dizziness, which can be exacerbated by the use of alcohol or marijuana (cannabis). Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you are confident that it can be performed safely. 

Alcohol consumption should be limited. If you are using marijuana (cannabis), speak with your doctor. 

If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication. 

The side effects of this medication may be more pronounced in older adults, particularly dizziness, constipation, or swelling of the ankles and feet. 

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only if absolutely necessary, and the risks and benefits should be discussed with your doctor. 

This medication passes into breast milk and may cause undesirable effects in a nursing infant. As a result, consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.