Diltiazem XC

Uses of Diltiazem XC

Diltiazem XC is used to treat mild-to-moderate high blood pressure and chronic stable angina (chest pain). Diltiazem works by relaxing blood vessels and by reducing the workload of the heart. It may take up to 2 to 4 weeks to see the full effects of this medication.

Precautions and Warnings

Do not take diltiazem extended-release tablets if you:

• are allergic to diltiazem or any ingredients of the medication
• are or may become pregnant
• have certain types of heart rhythm problems (sick sinus syndrome, or second or third-degree AV block) and do not use a pacemaker
• have fluid in the lungs due to severe heart failure
• have very low blood pressure
• have a very slow heart rate
• are taking the medication dantrolene
• are taking the medication ivabradine

Occasionally, blood pressure drops too low after taking this medication. Diltiazem extended-release tablets may cause dizziness and a drop in blood pressure when you stand from a sitting or lying down position, especially if you are taking medications that lower blood pressure. Get up slowly from a sitting or lying down position while you are taking this medication. If you experience lightheadedness, weakness, or dizziness, talk to your doctor.

Diltiazem extended-release tablets may make symptoms of congestive heart failure worse. People who have had recent heart attacks may also be at increased risk. If you have congestive heart failure or have had a recent heart attack, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Diltiazem extended-release tablets may cause an increase in blood glucose. People with diabetes may find it necessary to monitor their blood sugar more frequently while using this medication. If you have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

For people with certain types of heart rhythm problems (e.g., sick sinus syndrome, second- and third-degree atrioventricular block), diltiazem extended-release tablets may cause abnormally slow heart rates. If you have one of these heart rhythm problems, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

If you have heart rhythm problems, do not use this medication if you do not use a pacemaker.

If you have reduced kidney function or kidney disease, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. People taking diltiazem have reportd cases of kidney injury. Conditions such as low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, or heart failure may increase the risk of kidney problems.

Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause this medication to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have reduced liver function or liver disease, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor will monitor your liver function closely while you are taking this medication.

Diltiazem extended-release tablets may cause a decrease in liver function. If you experience symptoms of liver problems (itchy rash, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, vomiting, upper right abdominal pain), stop taking this medication and contact your doctor immediately.

This medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. This medication passes into breast milk. If you are breast-feeding and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children.

People 65 years or older may experience more side effects than younger people. Your doctor will monitor you closely while you are taking this medication.

Dosage

Recommended Dose and Dose Adjustment:

Hypertension: When used as monotherapy, usual starting doses for hypertension are 180 to 240 mg once daily. Maximum antihypertensive effect is usually observed after approximately 2 to 4 weeks of therapy; therefore, dosage adjustments should be scheduled accordingly. A maximum daily dose of 360 mg should not be exceeded.

Angina: Dosage should be based on individual patient response. Treatment should start with 180 mg once daily; this may be increased at intervals of 7 to 14 days if adequate response is not obtained. Higher doses may not result in greater anti-anginal effect. The maximum dose is 360 mg once

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Dizziness,
• lightheadedness,
• weakness,
•  nausea,
• flushing,
• constipation,
• headache