Indications 

Tiazac is a prescribed medication for adults, either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other antihypertensive drugs, for the management of hypertension (elevated blood pressure). 

Tiazac is also approved for the treatment of chronic stable angina (chest pain). 

As a calcium channel blocker, Tiazac functions by inducing relaxation in blood vessels, thereby reducing the heart’s workload. Moreover, it enhances the delivery of blood and oxygen to the heart. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Tiazac and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance if you have any questions. 

The dosage of this medication is determined based on the patient’s medical condition, response to the treatment, and concurrent medications. 

Your doctor will likely initiate your Tiazac treatment with a minimal dosage and incrementally adjust it, with no more than one adjustment every 7 to 14 days. 

Typically, this medication is taken once daily as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. The capsule should be ingested whole, without crushing or chewing, as doing so may lead to a rapid release of the drug, potentially elevating the risk of side effects. 

In case of trouble swallowing the capsule, cautiously open it and sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of soft, cool applesauce immediately before consumption. Swallow the entire mixture without chewing. Afterward, rinse your mouth and swallow the rinse liquid to ensure complete ingestion of the medication. Do not prepare a batch in advance. 

For optimal results, take Tiazac exactly as directed at approximately the same time each day.  

Keep taking this medication, even if you are in good health, and consult your doctor before discontinuing its use. 

Inform your doctor of any deterioration in your condition, such as increased chest pain or elevated routine blood pressure readings. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Tiazac. Tell your doctor promptly if any of them persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Swelling 
• Infections, flu-like symptoms 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Headache, dizziness, weakness 
• Reduced heart rate 
• Nausea, stomach discomfort 
• Skin rash 

Serious Side Effects 

• Chest pain, irregular heart rate (fast, slow, or uneven) 
• A sensation of lightheadedness, potential fainting 
• Indications of heart issues:  
  • Swelling 
  • Sudden weight gain 
  • Breathlessness 
• Signs of liver problems: 
  • Decreased appetite 
  • Upper right abdominal pain 
  • Fatigue 
  • Itching 
  • Dark urine 
  • Pale stools 
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) 

Call your doctor immediately if any of the serious side effects listed above are experienced. 

Seek immediate medical assistance if you exhibit severe skin reaction symptoms while taking Tiazac, such as: 

• Fever 
• Sore throat 
• Burning eyes 
• Skin discomfort 
• A red or purple blistering rash 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Tiazac may occur. Immediate medical attention is necessary upon observing any indications of an allergic response, including: 

• Hives 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Swelling of the face or throat 

Not all side effects of Tiazac are included in this list. Report to your doctor if any unlisted symptoms occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Tiazac, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to diltiazem. 

Seek further guidance from your pharmacist regarding Tiazac, as it might contain inactive ingredients that may cause allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Tiazac is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Certain heart rhythm issues (e.g., sick sinus syndrome/atrioventricular block) 
• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Heart failure 

Some products may interact with Tiazac, including digoxin and fingolimod. To minimize the risk of such drug interactions, notify all your healthcare providers of any current or recently started or stopped medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Other drugs can impact the elimination of Tiazac, altering its effectiveness. 

Examples of such drugs comprise: 

• Azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole) 
• Cimetidine 
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin) 
• Rifamycins (e.g., rifabutin, rifampin) 
• St. John’s wort and more 

Tiazac can reduce the elimination of other medications, potentially impacting their effectiveness. Examples of affected drugs encompass: 

• Aprepitant/fosaprepitant 
• Asunaprevir 
• Buspirone 
• Colchicine 
• Elacestrant 
• Flibanserin 
• Ivabradine 
• Lomitapide 
• Certain benzodiazepines (triazolam, midazolam), and more 

Inform your pharmacist of the products you are using, as certain ingredients may potentially elevate heart rate or blood pressure. Seek guidance on their safe use, especially for items like cough-and-cold remedies, weight loss aids, or NSAIDs like ibuprofen/naproxen. 

Exercise caution with activities like driving or tasks requiring alertness until you know how Tiazac may impact your reactions, as it may impair them. Avoid getting up too quickly from a seated or lying position to prevent dizziness.  

Elderly individuals may experience heightened sensitivity to the adverse effects of Tiazac, particularly dizziness, constipation, or edema in the lower extremities. 

Tiazac should only be used when necessary during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to understand the potential risks and benefits. 

Diltiazem can be transferred to breast milk and may cause adverse effects on a nursing baby. Consult with your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.