Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2024)

Uses

Diltiazem is used to prevent chest pain (angina). It may help to increase your ability to exercise and decrease how often you may get angina attacks. Diltiazem is called a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels in the body and heart and lowers the heart rate. Blood can flow more easily and your heart works less hard to pump blood.

How to use diltiazem oral

Take this medication by mouth before meals and at bedtime as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times a day.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). Your doctor may gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. This medication must be taken regularly to prevent angina. It should not be used to treat angina when it occurs. Use other medications (such as sublingual nitroglycerin) to relieve an angina attack as directed by your doctor. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens (for example, your chest pain worsens or is more frequent).

Side Effects

Dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, nausea, flushing, constipation, and headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, fainting, new or worsening symptoms of heart failure (such as shortness of breath, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain), slow/irregular/pounding/fast heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as depression, agitation), unusual dreams, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking diltiazem, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: certain types of heart rhythm problems (such as sick sinus syndrome/atrioventricular block), liver disease, kidney disease, heart failure.

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness, constipation, or swelling ankles/feet.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: digoxin, fingolimod, labetalol.

Other medications can affect the removal of diltiazem from your body, which may affect how this medication works. Examples include azole antifungals (such as ketoconazole), cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics (such as erythromycin), rifamycins (such as rifabutin, rifampin), St. John's wort, among others.

This medication can slow down the removal of other medications from your body, which may affect how they work. Examples of affected drugs include aprepitant/fosaprepitant, asunaprevir, buspirone, colchicine, elacestrant, flibanserin, ivabradine, lomitapide, certain benzodiazepines (triazolam, midazolam), among others.

Some products have ingredients that could raise your heart rate or worsen your chest pain. Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen).

Does diltiazem oral interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney/liver function, pulse, blood pressure, EKG) may be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

There are different brands and types of this medication available. Many do not have the same effects. Do not change brands or types without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (1)

diltiazem 30 mg tablet

Color: faint orangeShape: roundImprint: 93 318

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2)

diltiazem 60 mg tablet

Color: light yellowShape: roundImprint: logo and 130

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (3)

diltiazem 60 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 482

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (4)

diltiazem 60 mg tablet

Color: orangeShape: roundImprint: 93 319

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (5)

diltiazem 90 mg tablet

Color: greenShape: oblongImprint: CARDIZEM 90 mg

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (6)

diltiazem 60 mg tablet

Color: yellowShape: roundImprint: MARION 1772

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (7)

diltiazem 30 mg tablet

Color: greenShape: roundImprint: MARION 1771

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (8)

diltiazem 30 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: 481

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (9)

diltiazem 30 mg tablet

Color: light greenShape: roundImprint: logo and 129

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (10)

diltiazem 60 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: M 45

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (11)

diltiazem 30 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: roundImprint: M 23

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (12)

diltiazem 120 mg tablet

Color: yellowShape: oblongImprint: CARDIZEM 120 mg

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (13)

diltiazem 90 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: oblongImprint: M135

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (14)

diltiazem 120 mg tablet

Color: orangeShape: oblongImprint: 93 321

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (15)

diltiazem 90 mg tablet

Color: faint orangeShape: oblongImprint: 93 320

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (16)

diltiazem 120 mg tablet

Color: whiteShape: oblongImprint: M525

This medicine is a faint orange, round, film-coated, tablet imprinted with "93 318".

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Drug Survey

Are you currently using diltiazem oral?

This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Diltiazem Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD (2024)

FAQs

What are the WebMD side effects of diltiazem? ›

Dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, nausea, flushing, constipation, and headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

What supplements should not be taken with diltiazem? ›

Mixing diltiazem with herbal remedies or supplements

St John's wort is a herbal remedy taken for depression. It's thought to affect the way diltiazem works. Talk to a pharmacist or doctor if you're thinking about taking St John's wort.

What are the major interactions with diltiazem? ›

This can lead to an extremely low heart rate (bradycardia) or a complete heart block. This list is not all-inclusive of diltiazem interactions. Other medications that can interact with diltiazem include atazanavir, rifampin, amlodipine, cimetidine, cyclosporine, erythromycin, verapamil, and itraconazole.

What foods should be avoided when taking diltiazem? ›

Diltiazem Food

You may want to limit alcohol intake and avoid excessive consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment with dilTIAZem.

Does diltiazem have bad side effects? ›

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible: Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Heart failure—shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands, sudden weight gain, unusual weakness or fatigue.

What are the two worst blood pressure medications? ›

5 of the worst blood pressure medications
  1. Beta blockers. Usually, beta blockers aren't used as first-choice therapies to lower blood pressure. ...
  2. Loop diuretics. Furosemide (Lasix) is a type of diuretic (water pill) known as a loop diuretic. ...
  3. Alpha blockers. ...
  4. Vasodilators. ...
  5. Alpha-2 agonists.

What should you not drink with diltiazem? ›

However, it's best to not drink alcohol for a few days after starting diltiazem or if your doctor increases your dose. Wait until you know how the medicine affects you. Drinking alcohol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of diltiazem, which can make you feel dizzy or light-headed.

Can vitamin D be taken with diltiazem? ›

Diltiazem (Cardizem, Tiazac, others).

Avoid taking high doses of vitamin D with this blood pressure drug. High doses of vitamin D can cause hypercalcemia, which might reduce the drug's effectiveness.

Is diltiazem a high risk medication? ›

Rarely, diltiazem (Cardizem) can cause heart rhythm problems. Sometimes, this can lead to abnormally slow heart rate. Your risk of this side effect is higher if you're taking certain medications, such as digoxin or beta-blockers.

Who should not use diltiazem? ›

are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding. have liver disease or kidney disease. have heart failure or problems with your heartbeat. have a condition that causes food to move slower than usual through your body.

What drug can replace diltiazem? ›

Compare diltiazem alternatives
Compare diltiazem alternatives
Sular (nisoldipine): CCBHTN
Toprol XL (metoprolol succinate extended-release): beta- blockerHTN Chest pain Heart failure
Vasotec (enalapril): ACE inhibitorHTN Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction Left ventricular dysfunction
12 more rows
Aug 17, 2022

What to check before giving diltiazem? ›

Assessment
  1. Monitor BP and pulse prior to therapy, during dose titration, and periodically during therapy. ...
  2. Assess for rash periodically during therapy. ...
  3. Angina: Assess location, duration, intensity, and precipitating factors of patient's anginal pain.
  4. Arrhythmias: Monitor ECG continuously during administration.

Can I drink coffee with diltiazem? ›

This combination may cause unusual bleeding or bruising, headache, dizziness, or weakness.

Can you eat bananas with calcium blockers? ›

If you are on a calcium channel blocker, you should limit your calcium intake to 1,000 milligrams. Bananas. Blood pressure medication should not be mixed with high quantities of bananas or other high-potassium foods.

Can I take Tylenol with diltiazem? ›

The metabolism of Acetaminophen can be decreased when combined with Diltiazem. The risk or severity of hypoglycemia can be increased when Diltiazem is combined with Acetohexamide.

Why has diltiazem been recalled? ›

Recall of this batch has been initiated due to Out of Specification (OOS) was reported in test of dissolution for Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release Capsules 120 mg, batch # 17230304 at 12th month time point in long term stability study (Commercial batch).

Is it better to take diltiazem at night or in the morning? ›

You can take diltiazem at any time of day but try to make sure it's around the same time or times every day.

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