Cardizem, also known as Diltiazem, is a medication with the active ingredient diltiazem hydrochloride. It is commonly used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). Cardizem helps by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Expect to pay anywhere from £0.34 to £1.83 for a pills of Cardizem. The disparity in cost arises from packaging volume and the grade of active ingredients (30 or 360 mg).
Cardizem is the brand name for the generic drug diltiazem. It is part of the nondihydropyridine calcium channel blocker class. Cardizem is used in various therapeutic areas, particularly for cardiovascular conditions.
Cardizem is available in multiple forms including oral tablets, extended-release tablets, and extended-release capsules. Each form and dosage strength is specifically designed for different treatment regimens and patient compliance. Common strengths for oral tablets include 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg, and 120 mg. Extended-release capsules come in strengths of 120 mg, 180 mg, 240 mg, and higher.
Cardizem is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypertension, which helps in reducing blood pressure levels. It is also prescribed for managing chronic stable angina and angina due to coronary artery spasm. These conditions result from the narrowing of blood vessels which restrict blood flow to the heart.
Cardizem works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into the cardiac muscle cells and smooth muscle cells. This causes a relaxation of the coronary and systemic arteries, which decreases myocardial oxygen demand and lowers blood pressure. By reducing heart rate and dilating arteries, it also alleviates the workload on the heart.
The administration of Cardizem should follow the specific physician’s instructions for dosing. Extended-release capsules or tablets should not be crushed or chewed but should be swallowed whole. Typical dosing in hypertensive patients starts at a lower dose and is gradually titrated upward based on the patient’s response and tolerability.
Cardizem should be stored at room temperature, away from excess moisture and heat. It should be kept in its original container until use and should be out of reach of children. The integrity of the drug needs to be maintained to ensure its efficacy.
Cardizem has several potential drug interactions that must be considered. These include interactions with other antihypertensives, which may enhance blood-pressure-lowering effects. It also interacts with beta-blockers and digoxin, where it can increase levels of these medications leading to potential toxicity. Grapefruit juice may increase diltiazem plasma concentrations by interfering with the cytochrome P450 enzyme system.
The absorption profile of Cardizem varies by its formulation. Immediate-release forms have rapid absorption, while extended-release forms are designed for a prolonged effect. The bioavailability of diltiazem ranges from 40% to 60% due to first-pass metabolism. It is widely distributed in the body and has a half-life ranging from 3 to 9 hours, depending on the formulation, resulting in different dosing intervals.
Common adverse effects of Cardizem include headache, dizziness, and bradycardia. Some patients may experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as constipation or nausea. Edema in the lower extremities is also reported. Severe side effects, although rare, include hypotension, hepatic dysfunction, and signs of heart failure. Regular monitoring and consultations with a healthcare provider can mitigate these risks.
Cardizem is contraindicated in patients with sick sinus syndrome, second or third-degree AV block unless a functioning pacemaker is present. It should not be used in patients with hypotension (systolic pressure below 90 mmHg), acute myocardial infarction, or pulmonary congestion. These contraindications concern specific patient safety.
Patients with hepatic impairment need careful dosage adjustments as diltiazem is extensively metabolized in the liver. Geriatric patients may require lower initial dosing due to increased sensitivity to the drug. Pediatric use is not well-studied, hence caution is advised. Pregnant women should use Cardizem only if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus.
Regular monitoring is essential while on Cardizem to ensure efficacy and safety. Blood pressure, heart rate, and ECG should be routinely checked. Periodic liver function tests may be warranted given the hepatic metabolism of the drug. Adjustments in therapy should be based on these monitoring parameters.
Patients are often advised to maintain a consistent level of dietary sodium and avoid sudden dietary changes. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can potentially affect the metabolism of Cardizem, leading to higher plasma levels. It is usually recommended to avoid these while on therapy.
In case of an overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment is required. Symptoms of overdose can include marked hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiac conduction disturbances. Intravenous fluids, vasopressors, and measures to maintain cardiac output may be necessary. Administration of activated charcoal or gastric lavage could be considered if within a short time post-ingestion.
Patients should be advised to take their medication exactly as prescribed. Missing doses or discontinuing medication without consulting a healthcare provider could result in adverse effects on cardiovascular health. Patients should be educated on the importance of lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and exercise, alongside the medication for optimal treatment efficacy.
Cardizem is a prescription-only medication. Prescriptions should detail the form, dosage, and frequency of the medication tailored to the patient’s specific condition and response to therapy. Refills and follow-ups should be systematically scheduled to monitor treatment progress and make necessary adjustments.