Heart Conditions
Cardizem LA may not be suitable if you have certain heart rhythm or conduction problems, such as a very slow heartbeat or certain types of heart block.
It should also be used carefully if you have low blood pressure or reduced heart function.
Tell your healthcare provider about any heart condition before starting treatment.
Slow or Irregular Heartbeat
Cardizem LA can slow your heart rate and may affect the electrical signals that control your heartbeat.
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop:
- Fainting
- Severe dizziness
- Chest pain
- An unusually slow heartbeat
- New or worsening irregular heartbeats
Heart Failure
Cardizem LA may worsen heart failure in some people, especially those who already have reduced heart function.
Tell your healthcare provider if you develop worsening shortness of breath, swelling in your legs or ankles, rapid weight gain, or unusual tiredness.
Dizziness and Low Blood Pressure
Cardizem LA can lower blood pressure and may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position.
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
Alcohol may make dizziness or low blood pressure worse.
Drug Interactions
Cardizem LA can interact with many medications.
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you use.
Important interactions may occur with certain:
- Beta-blockers
- Digoxin
- Statins
- Blood thinners
- Antiarrhythmic medications
- Medications that affect the CYP3A4 enzyme system
Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your doses or monitor you more closely.
Constipation
Constipation can occur while taking Cardizem LA.
Drink enough fluids and eat fiber-rich foods unless your healthcare provider has told you to follow a different diet.
Contact your healthcare provider if constipation becomes severe or does not improve.
Liver Problems
Rarely, diltiazem can cause liver injury. These problems have often appeared during the first several weeks of treatment.
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe tiredness, or persistent upper abdominal pain.
Pregnancy
Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Cardizem LA should be used during pregnancy only when your healthcare provider believes the benefits of treatment outweigh the possible risks.
Breastfeeding
Diltiazem passes into breast milk.
If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, speak with your healthcare provider. They can help decide whether Cardizem LA is appropriate or whether another treatment or feeding plan should be considered.
Severe Skin Reactions
Rare but serious skin reactions have been reported with diltiazem.
Seek medical attention if you develop a severe rash, blistering, peeling skin, or sores in your mouth.
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