Cardizem
Diltiazem
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Cardizem
Cardizem is a calcium channel blocker anti hypertensive medicine. These medicines block the entry of calcium ions into smooth muscle cells that line the coronary arteries of heart and other arteries of the body. Calcium ions are very important in causing contraction of muscle cells of coronary arteries and other arteries of the body. So by blocking the entry of calcium into the muscle cells cause relaxation of coronary arteries and other arteries of the body. By causing relaxation of coronary arteries Cardizem is helpful in the treatment of angina pain which is due to spasm of coronary arteries. By causing relaxation of the other arteries of the body Cardizem causes lowering of blood pressure, which in turn reduce the workload of the heart that can be a burden in case of raised blood pressure. By reducing the burden of the heart Cardizem reduces oxygen demand of the heart muscle which further reduces the chances of angina. Cardizem also reduces the pulse rate by slowing the electrical conduction of the heart.
Therapeutic Uses of Cardizem
Cardizem is used in the treatment of angina and as well as prevention of angina which is due to spasm of coronary arteries of the heart and triggered by exertion. It is also used in the treatment of high blood pressure. Cardizem reduces heart rate by delaying electrical conduction of the heart and this property is used in the treatment of abnormally high heart rate like atrial fibrillation (where pulse rate is as high as 200-300 per minute).
Direction of use of Cardizem
Cardizem is taken orally on full stomach or on empty stomach. Dose of Cardizem has to be lowered in case of liver disease and kidney disease, because it is metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidney. If you have any doubt as to the use of Cardizem you should consult your doctor.
Dose of Cardizem, if Missed
If you miss a dose of Cardizem you should try to take it as soon as possible. If you miss for long period and it is almost time for the next dose skip the dose and take as usual dose skipping the missed dose. Do not take 2 doses together to catch up for the missed dose.
How to Store Cardizem
Cardizem should be stored at room temperature away from heat, moisture, light etc. It should be stored in a tightly closed container.
More Information About Cardizem
Never share Cardizem with anyone. Use it for yourself if doctor has prescribed for you.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Cardizem
You should inform your doctor if you heart problem, liver disease, kidney disease, allergy, lung disease etc. You should inform all these before start taking Cardizem. Use Cardizem only if it is clearly indicated. If you are pregnant consult with your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking Cardizem during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in the breast milk and it should not be taken if you are breast feeding. If you must take Cardizem (no other alternative), than stop breast feeding. If you drink alcohol, ideally it should be stopped and if you can not stop at least reduce alcohol intake while you are on Cardizem.
Possible Adverse Effects
Cardizem can cause dizziness, light headedness etc. which are common for first few days of therapy. Avoid activities that require alertness like driving motor vehicle and operating heavy machinery. If you are getting dizziness try to minimize it by getting up slowly from lying position and stand up slowly from sitting position. Consult your doctor if you get side effects like breathing difficulties, swelling of the hands or feet, an irregular heartbeat etc. Inform your doctor if any side effects like heartburn, muscle cramps, nasal congestion, headache, flushing, sore throat, constipation or diarrhea become bothersome. If you get any side effect that is not listed above also you should tell your doctor.