Diltiazem 120mg CD

Diltiazem 120mg CD Uses

Diltiazem 120mg CD is prescribed for:

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Lowers elevated blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage.
• Angina (Chest Pain): Relieves discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
• Heart Rhythm Disorders: Manages arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or supraventricular tachycardia by normalizing heart rate.

Its sustained-release formulation ensures consistent symptom management throughout the day.

How Does Diltiazem 120mg CD Work?

Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that works by:

• Relaxing Blood Vessels: Reduces the calcium influx into smooth muscle cells, leading to the dilation of blood vessels and improved blood flow.
• Decreasing Heart Workload: Lowers the heart rate and reduces the force of contractions, helping the heart pump more efficiently.

This dual action alleviates chest pain, stabilizes heart rhythms, and controls blood pressure.

How to Use Diltiazem 120mg CD

1. Dosage: Take Diltiazem 120mg CD exactly as directed by your doctor, usually once daily.
2. Administration: Swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not chew, crush, or split the capsule, as it is designed for controlled release.
3. Timing: Take at the same time every day, with or without food.
4. Consistency: Do not miss doses, and avoid stopping the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Diltiazem 120mg CD include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Flushing or warmth in the face
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Rare but serious side effects, such as worsening chest pain, slow or irregular heartbeat, or severe allergic reactions, require immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Diltiazem 120mg CD may interact with other medications. Inform your doctor if you are taking:

• Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol, propranolol)
• Digoxin (used for heart failure or arrhythmias)
• Antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., amiodarone, flecainide)
• Statins (e.g., simvastatin, atorvastatin)
• Medications for high blood pressure or heart conditions
• Medications that affect liver enzymes

Food Interactions

• Grapefruit: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can increase the levels of Diltiazem in the blood, leading to enhanced side effects.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake, as it may amplify dizziness or the blood pressure-lowering effects of Diltiazem.

Contraindications

Diltiazem 120mg CD is contraindicated in individuals who:

• Are allergic to Diltiazem or its components
• Have very low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Have advanced heart block or sick sinus syndrome without a pacemaker
• Have severe liver or kidney impairment

Precautions and Warnings

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use only if prescribed by your doctor, as its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not fully established.
• Heart Conditions: Monitor closely if you have a history of heart failure or other significant heart issues.
• Driving and Machinery: Avoid activities requiring focus and alertness if you experience dizziness, fatigue, or blurred vision.
• Monitoring: Regular blood pressure and heart rate checks are recommended during treatment.

Storage

• Store Diltiazem 120mg CD at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Dispose of unused or expired medication responsibly.

Conclusion

Diltiazem 120mg CD is an effective solution for managing high blood pressure, angina, and heart rhythm disorders. Its controlled-release formulation offers consistent symptom relief throughout the day, promoting better cardiovascular health and improving overall quality of life. Always use Diltiazem 120mg CD as directed by your doctor, and purchase it from a reliable source to ensure quality and efficacy.