Diltiazem XC® Extended-Release Capsules for Hypertension

Diltiazem XC is an extended-release calcium channel blocker used for high blood pressure and chronic stable angina. It helps relax blood vessels and may reduce heart rate, lowering the heart’s workload. This page explains how the medicine works, who it’s for, and how to use it safely. It also outlines ways to manage costs if you pay without insurance.

What Diltiazem XC Is and How It Works

Diltiazem XC® contains diltiazem hydrochloride in a controlled-release capsule. As a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, it limits calcium entry into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. This action helps lower blood pressure and can ease angina by reducing oxygen demand and improving blood flow. Border Free Health connects U.S. patients with licensed Canadian partner pharmacies; prescriptions are verified with prescribers before dispensing.

This class can slow heart rate and decrease the force of contraction. It may be used as part of a broader cardiovascular plan guided by your clinician. Do not use it for sudden chest pain relief.

Who It’s For

This treatment is used for adults with hypertension and for chronic stable angina per approved labeling. It is not for immediate relief of acute chest pain. People with certain rhythm disorders, very low blood pressure, or advanced heart block without a pacemaker should avoid it. Those with heart failure, liver problems, or kidney concerns should discuss risks and monitoring with a healthcare professional.

Some patients with atrial fibrillation may be managed with rate-control therapies. Decisions vary, and your prescriber will determine whether this medicine fits your plan. Learn more about related conditions like Hypertension, Angina, and Atrial Fibrillation.

Dosage and Usage

Extended-release capsules are typically taken once daily, as directed. An example regimen is Diltiazem XC once daily, taken at the same time each day. Swallow capsules whole. Do not chew, split, or crush. You may take it with or without food, but be consistent day to day.

Keep a log of your home blood pressure readings. Share results with your prescriber during follow-up visits. If you also take other heart medicines, your clinician may adjust your treatment plan to limit additive effects.

Strengths and Forms

The product is generally available as extended-release capsules in multiple strengths. Availability may vary.

• Diltiazem XC 120 mg capsules are a common starting option
• Other strengths often include 180 mg, 240 mg, 300 mg, and 360 mg
• Packaging sizes may vary by partner pharmacy

Capsules are designed for controlled release over 24 hours. Do not substitute strengths without prescriber guidance.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is close to your next dose. If it is near the next scheduled time, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up. Consistent daily timing helps maintain steady levels.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store capsules at room temperature in a dry place away from direct light. Keep them in the original, child-resistant container with the prescription label. For travel, bring enough supply, plus a copy of your prescription. Keep medicines in your carry-on when flying and follow security rules. If you cross time zones, keep your usual interval in local time.

Use a weekly organizer only if you can keep it closed and away from moisture. Dispose of outdated capsules according to local guidance. Ask a pharmacist about take-back programs if available.

Pen Handling and Sharps Disposal

No pens or needles are involved. These are oral capsules, so sharps disposal does not apply.

Benefits

This therapy can help lower blood pressure and reduce angina episodes when used as directed. Once-daily dosing supports adherence. Multiple strengths allow your prescriber to tailor your plan. It can be combined with other agents if needed, following professional guidance. For a broader view of options, see our Cardiovascular category.

Side Effects and Safety

• Headache or dizziness, especially when starting
• Fatigue or weakness, sometimes with slow pulse
• Flushing or warmth in the face
• Peripheral edema, especially in the ankles
• Nausea or stomach discomfort

Serious effects are uncommon but may include very low blood pressure, worsening heart failure, heart block, liver problems, or severe rash. Seek medical attention for fainting, marked shortness of breath, yellowing skin or eyes, or swelling that rapidly worsens. Avoid abrupt discontinuation unless your prescriber advises otherwise.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Diltiazem is a CYP3A4 substrate and inhibitor. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers can change its levels. Certain statins, especially simvastatin and lovastatin, may require caution. Additive effects can occur with beta-blockers or other rate-slowing agents. Digoxin levels may rise. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice unless your clinician says otherwise. Review all medicines, vitamins, and herbs with your prescriber. For related class context, see Verapamil Uses.

What to Expect Over Time

Blood pressure often improves gradually with steady use. Angina prevention benefits may build with consistent daily dosing. Your prescriber may adjust the strength after reviewing your response and any side effects. Keep regular follow-up to review vitals, symptoms, and medication lists. Do not stop suddenly; discuss any changes before you make them.

Compare With Alternatives

Other approved calcium channel blockers can be considered if this option does not fit your plan. Brand nifedipine formulations such as Adalat® Xl are long-acting dihydropyridines focused on vessel relaxation. Generic nifedipine options like Nifedipine Xr offer once-daily profiles too. Your prescriber will choose based on your clinical picture and other medicines.

Pricing and Access

We list transparent options so you can compare the Diltiazem XC price with Canadian supply. Many patients paying out of pocket use Canadian pricing to stretch budgets. If you order through our site, you can order Diltiazem XC online with a valid prescription. We provide US shipping from Canada. Check the Country Of Origin attribute on product pages. Secure purchasing is supported with encrypted checkout.

If you take this for heart conditions, discuss budget planning with your prescriber. Some patients coordinate refills to align with clinic visits or lab checks. If you live with angina, you can review symptoms and care basics here: Angina Symptoms.

Availability and Substitutions

Stock can vary across partner pharmacies. If a strength is unavailable, your prescriber may consider a different dose or an alternative in the same class. If needed, your clinician can also discuss Diltiazem XC generic labeling and comparable extended-release options.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This medicine may fit adults who need once-daily blood pressure or angina control and can follow monitoring advice. It may not suit those with certain rhythm problems, advanced conduction disease without a pacemaker, or very low baseline blood pressure. If you have liver or heart failure, your prescriber may adjust your plan.

• Multi-month fills: reduce pharmacy trips and per-fill fees
• Set reminders: support steady dosing adherence
• Travel buffer: carry extra days for delays
• Home BP logs: enable precise adjustments
• Avoid duplicates: check combinations with other heart drugs

For educational resources on related therapies, see Atenolol Uses and review signs of emergencies at Heart Attack.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

• My goals: what blood pressure range should I aim for?
• Timing: what time of day best fits my other medicines?
• Interactions: which drugs or foods should I avoid?
• Side effects: what changes should prompt a call?
• Monitoring: how often should I check home readings?
• Angina plan: what is my action plan for chest pain?
• Follow-up: when should we reassess my dose?

Authoritative Sources

Ready to proceed? You can place your order today with prompt, express shipping. Ships from Canada to US. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your prescriber’s directions and the official label.