Prescription Required
Description
Cardizem SR is a calcium channel blocker made up of diltiazem. We carry the alternative to Cardizem SR which is called diltiazem. This medication is available in 120mg, 180mg, 240mg, 300mg, and 360mg.
Cardizem SR is medication used to prevent angina (chest pain) and treat hypertension (high blood pressure). The blood inside your body carries oxygen which is essential for heart muscle function and when there is a lack of oxygen, angina occurs. The main cause of this occurrence is coronary artery disease. Hypertension can be caused by a number of factors ranging from personal decisions like smoking, lack of exercise and excessive alcohol consumption to factors out of your control such as aging, genetics and diseases like kidney and thyroid problems. Hypertension and angina can both lead to serious conditions like strokes and heart attacks, which can sometimes be fatal. This medication can b used on its own or with other medications and has a wide variety of release methods, which we also have available here at MyDrugCenter!
The diltiazem inside Cardizem SR works to prevent hypertension and angina by causing the blood vessels in your body to relax and widen. When you have hypertension, they are narrow which does not allow for easy blood flow. When they are relaxed, the blood flows much more smoothly thus reducing blood pressure. Diltiazem also helps your heart so it doesn’t have to work as hard by reducing the strain, it does this by lowering the heart rate.
Directions
Always follow directions given to you by your doctor. Do not take more or less of a dose than recommended by your doctor. Instructions can usually also be found on the prescription or prescription bottle/container.
Do not crush, chew or break this medication.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
Ensure you are taking this medication regularly in order to get the full benefit. You also are suggested to regularly get blood tests done while using Cardizem SR.
Do not suddenly stop taking this medication before consulting your doctor. You could worsen your condition by doing so.
You should store Cardizem SR at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Cautions
Do not use this medication if ANY of the following apply to you:
If you have very low blood pressure. This medication is used to treat high blood pressure which means it will lower blood pressure when used. You risk lowering your already very low pressure even more. This can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness and can also cause injury if you end up fainting. Additionally, it can cause damage to your heart and brain.
If you have a serious heart condition and do not use a pacemaker. Conditions such as "sick sinus syndrome" or "AV block". This medication affects the heart rate and could cause a negative reaction with these conditions.
If you have recently had a heart attack and you have a build-up of fluid in your lungs. Cardizem SR could worsen your condition by slowing down your heart.
Make sure to tell your doctor about the following if they apply to you:
Kidney disease – This medication has a small chance of damaging the blood vessels in the kidneys and could worsen the condition.
Liver Disease – This medication can cause a slight increase in liver enzymes and cause more damage to the liver.
Use of digoxin or beta blocker – You may need a dose adjustment as this medication can increase the amount of digoxin (or beta blockers) in your system, which can cause unwanted reactions.
Cardizem SR has not yet been established as safe for pregnant women. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant or consult your doctor to find out the risks. Cardizem SR has been established as harmful to nursing babies. Do not breast feed while using Cardizem SR. Seniors may have an increased chance of side effects. This medication has not approved for the use of those under the age of 18 years old.
Side Effects
Side effects are not always present in everyone. Others are more sensitive to side effects while they could be mild for others. If side effects ever become too much to handle, contact your doctor right away.
Common side effects of Cardizem SR may include:
dizziness, weakness; headache; nausea; or rash.
Serious side effects of Cardizem SR may include:
slow heartbeats; pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or fainting;
Signs to watch for:
heart problems - shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain;
liver problems - nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
severe skin reaction - fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
FAQs
What are the other release methods? What does this one (Cardizem SR) do?
The other types of Cardizem include; Cardizem, Cardizem LA, and Cardizem CD. Cardizem SR stands for Cardizem Sustained Release, which is the same as a long acting release; the medication maintains consistent and extended effectiveness of the medication.
Are there any medical tests I should have done from time to time while on this medication?
Yes, you may have kidney, liver, pulse or blood pressure tests to monitor your progress.
Is this safe for pregnant women?
In certain cases, the benefits outweigh the risk. This medication should only be used when clearly needed while pregnant.
Can I purchase the brand name of Cardizem SR?
We only have the generic available at this time, however long acting release methods are the same as sustained release methods. We carry Cardizem LA in its brand name!
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