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Diltiazem

Information about Diltiazem

Diltiazem Uses

Diltiazem is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure), Angina (heart-related chest pain) and Arrhythmia.

How Diltiazem works

Diltiazem is used to treat angina (heart-related chest pain), high blood pressure, and some types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia). It is known as a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure. This helps to reduce the workload of the heart.

Common side effects of Diltiazem

Headache, Constipation, Dizziness, Fatigue, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Nausea1a, Palpitations, Rash

CONTENT DETAILS

Written By

Dr. Betina Chandolia

MDS, BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Ashish Ranjan

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Last updated

23 Sep 2021 | 10:16 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Diltiazem

Expert advice for Diltiazem

Diltiazem slows down the heartbeat and allows the blood vessels in the body to relax.
This helps prevent angina attacks (chest pain caused by heart disease), certain abnormal heart rhythms, stroke and heart attack.
It may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
It may cause you to feel lightheaded or weak especially when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension). Rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Diltiazem as it may make the side effects worse.
Do not stop taking it suddenly without talking to your doctor first.

Frequently asked questions for Diltiazem

Diltiazem

Q. Is Diltiazem a blood thinner?

No, Diltiazem is not a blood thinner. It belongs to the calcium channel blocker class of medicines. It is used to treat hypertension, arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) and angina (chest pain caused by a reduction of oxygen to the heart muscle).

Q. Does Diltiazem cause weight gain?

Yes, Diltiazem may cause weight gain but not in everybody. However, if you are gaining weight while taking Diltiazem then consult your doctor or a nutritionist.

Q. Is it better to take Diltiazem in the morning or at night?

It is recommended to take Diltiazem at night and before meals. The dose will be decided by your doctor and should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor.

Q. Does Diltiazem affect sleep?

Yes, Diltiazem may cause sleeplessness. However, this effect is not observed in everyone. If this persists and worries you talk to your doctor.

Q. Who should not take Diltiazem?

You should not take Diltiazem if you are allergic to it, have an irregular or slow heartbeat, heart failure and low blood pressure. It should not be given to children and women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant.

Q. What are the symptoms of overdose of Diltiazem?

Symptoms of overdose of Diltiazem include slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat, fainting, difficulty breathing and seizures. It may also cause dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting and increased sweating. If you experience any of such symptoms, contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical services in a nearby hospital.

Q. How long do I need to take Diltiazem? Can I stop it on my own?

Your doctor will suggest the duration of time for which you need to take it. Do not stop it on your own or lower your dose. Suddenly stopping it may worsen angina or increase your blood pressure.

Q. What should I avoid while taking Diltiazem?

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Diltiazem. Additionally, avoid driving and using heavy machinery if you experience dizziness and a general feeling of being unwell during the treatment with Diltiazem. In addition to that, it is advised to avoid pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Diltiazem.

Q. What are the serious side effects of Diltiazem?

The serious side effects of Diltiazem include severe allergic reaction, yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea and extreme tiredness. It may also cause unusual bleeding or bruising, lack of energy, loss of appetite and pain in the stomach. One may also experience flu-like symptoms and an increase in the frequency or severity of chest pain (angina). If you experience any such symptoms immediately contact your doctor and seek medical help.