Generic Name: Diltiazem HCl

Used to treat:

• Angina - Chest pain due to blockage of arteries to the heart
• Hypertension - High blood pressure

General Directions for Taking Medication:

• Take only as directed. DO NOT discontinue medication abruptly, even if you feel better. May cause a rebound effect of higher blood pressure.
• If you miss a dose, take the medicine as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, take only 1 dose. DO NOT double up the doses.
• DO NOT crush, break or chew sustained-release forms of this medication.
• If dizzy due to hypotension (low blood pressure), change positions slowly.
• Learn how to monitor your blood pressure at home and keep a diary for your doctor.
• Take with meals or a tall glass of milk to prevent upset stomach.
• Practice good dental hygiene to prevent gum inflammation (swelling, tenderness, and pain).
• Talk to your doctor about exercise, tips to stop smoking, and less salt in your diet.
• Tell all healthcare providers that you are taking this medicine prior to having any procedure.
• Keep enough medication on hand especially during holidays, weekends and vacations.
• Talk to your doctor about the need to wear a medical alert pendant or bracelet. There are many products that provide information to health care providers about your medicines and specific condition in case of an emergency.
• See your doctor regularly to monitor the effectiveness of this medication with lab tests, blood pressure screenings, and a physical exam.

Contraindications:

• Allergies - Hypersensitivity to this medication or its components
• Patients with Heart Block (unless pacemaker in place)
• Patients with low blood pressures, a recent heart attack, or pulmonary congestion
• Use with caution in:
• Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and children - Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
• Patients with liver disease, kidney disease, or history of arrhythmias (irregular heart beats)
• Elderly patients - May require smaller dosages to control symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• May occur during the first few days after beginning therapy, but usually resolve:
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, or blurred vision; bloating, heartburn, or nausea and vomiting; muscle cramps, weakness, stiff joints, and tremors; flushing, sweating, and a rash; confusion, anxiety, difficulty sleeping or nervousness

Serious Side Effects:

• Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:
• Swelling of hands or feet; an irregular heartbeat; shortness of breath; severe headache; or profound dizziness
• Allergic reaction symptoms such as a red skin rash; itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat; wheezing; chest pain; and difficulty breathing

Interactions:

• Drug - There are many medications, both over-the-counter and prescription, which will alter the action of this medication. Some include heart medications; antacids that contain calcium; calcium supplements; vitamin D; barbiturates; seizure medicines; narcotics; other antihypertensives; anti-tuberculosis drugs; antihistamines; and decongestants.
• It is extremely important that you consult with your doctor about dosing schedules if you take a variety of medications along with this medication. DO NOT take any new medication without talking with your doctor first.

Warnings:

• Overdose - Can lead to severe hypotension, abnormally slow heart rates, and heart block.
• DO NOT drink alcohol or use over-the-counter cold remedies when taking this medication.
• DO NOT drive or operate heavy machinery until you determine the extent of dizziness and drowsiness. Your doctor may be able to adjust your dose to control these side effects.
• Keep this medication and all others out of reach of children and pets.

General Dosage Information:

Storage:

• Keep at room temperature.
• Protect from sunlight and moisture.
• DO NOT store in the bathroom.