What conditions does diltiazem CD treat?

Diltiazem extended-release capsules are prescribed to help manage high blood pressure and to reduce episodes of chronic stable or vasospastic angina. It works by relaxing blood vessels and lowering the heart’s workload. It is not for sudden chest pain. Your prescriber will decide if this class fits your health profile, current medicines, and monitoring needs, and will advise how to use it safely over time.

How should I take extended-release diltiazem capsules?

Take one capsule daily at the same time. Swallow it whole with water. Do not crush or chew extended-release capsules. Some brands allow sprinkling on soft food, but others do not. Follow the specific patient leaflet and your prescriber’s instructions. Keep a steady routine and avoid missed doses. If you are unsure about food timing or interactions, ask your healthcare professional.

What are common side effects of this medicine?

Common effects can include headache, dizziness, flushing, fatigue, ankle swelling, constipation, or nausea. Many effects are mild and improve as your body adjusts. Serious symptoms such as very slow heartbeat, fainting, shortness of breath, or swelling that rapidly worsens require prompt medical attention. Report any unusual symptoms to your clinician, especially if you take other heart medicines or have liver or kidney issues.

Can I drink grapefruit juice with diltiazem?

Grapefruit can change how diltiazem is processed in the body. That may raise levels and increase side effect risk in some people. It is usually best to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this therapy. If grapefruit is part of your diet, ask your prescriber or pharmacist about safer alternatives and whether you need any additional monitoring while on treatment.

What happens if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember on the same day. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as planned. Do not double up. Using reminders or a pill organizer can help prevent missed doses. If you miss several doses, contact your prescriber for guidance rather than restarting on your own.

Are there important drug interactions to know about?

Diltiazem can interact with beta blockers and other heart-rate–lowering medicines, which may increase the chance of slow pulse or conduction issues. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, inducers, and grapefruit can affect levels. It may change blood levels of digoxin, certain statins, and cyclosporine. Always share a complete medication list with your pharmacist or clinician so they can review for safety and monitoring needs.

Is this medicine safe for heart failure?

People with decompensated heart failure or certain conduction problems may not be good candidates. In some stable cases, clinicians may still use it with caution and monitoring. Report any new swelling, shortness of breath, or rapid weight gain to your prescriber. If you have a history of heart failure or cardiomyopathy, discuss risks and alternatives before starting any new blood pressure or angina therapy.

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Diltiazem HCL CD is an extended-release calcium channel blocker for adults. It helps lower blood pressure and reduce angina episodes. This page explains safe use, strengths, and how ordering works with US delivery from Canada, including options without insurance.

What Cardizem Is and How It Works

Cardizem® CD and its generics contain diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker. It relaxes blood vessels by limiting calcium entry into heart and vascular muscle. That action lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart’s workload. The treatment may also help prevent angina episodes during exertion.

YouDrugstore is a licensed Canadian pharmacy in Manitoba. Pharmacists review prescriptions before dispensing.

This medicine is taken once daily in a controlled-release form. It maintains steadier levels through the day compared with immediate-release tablets. Your prescriber decides if this class fits your cardiovascular plan.

For broader reading on related conditions, see our Cardiovascular section.

Who It’s For

Diltiazem extended-release capsules are used for managing high blood pressure and certain types of chronic stable or vasospastic angina. It is intended for adults under a clinician’s care. People with very low blood pressure, certain rhythm disorders without a pacemaker, or known diltiazem allergy should avoid it. Those with heart failure or significant liver problems may require closer monitoring.

Learn more about the condition at Hypertension.

Dosage and Usage

Take your capsule once daily at the same time each day. Swallow it whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or split extended-release capsules. Some brands can be opened and sprinkled on soft food, but others cannot. Follow the specific product’s patient information and your prescriber’s directions.

You may take it with or without food as directed. If stomach upset occurs, a consistent meal routine may help. Avoid abrupt changes in timing. Keep a simple schedule and set reminders so you do not miss doses.

Strengths and Forms

Extended-release capsules are commonly available in multiple strengths. Availability varies by manufacturer and market.

120 mg extended-release capsules
180 mg extended-release capsules
240 mg extended-release capsules
300 mg extended-release capsules
360 mg extended-release capsules

Your prescriber chooses the strength that matches your treatment goals. Some patients may need to order Diltiazem CD 300 mg ER capsules after a clinician selects that dose.

Missed Dose and Timing

If you miss a dose, take it when you remember the same day. If it is close to the next scheduled time, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once. Keep your daily routine steady and use a pill organizer if needed.

Storage and Travel Basics

Store capsules at room temperature in a dry place away from direct light. Keep them in the original, labeled container and out of children’s reach. Do not store medicines in the bathroom. For travel, carry your prescription-labeled container in your hand luggage. Bring a copy of your prescription and a simple dosing schedule for time zone changes.

Benefits

This therapy may lower blood pressure and reduce chest pain episodes. Once-daily dosing supports adherence. Extended-release technology provides steady coverage through the day. It can be combined with other compatible heart medicines when a prescriber recommends that approach.

Side Effects and Safety

Headache or dizziness
Flushing or warmth
Fatigue or weakness
Swelling of ankles or feet
Constipation, nausea, or upset stomach
Rash or mild skin irritation

Serious effects are less common but may include very slow heart rate, heart block, marked low blood pressure, worsening heart failure symptoms, or liver enzyme changes. Seek urgent care for severe dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, swelling that rapidly worsens, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Drug Interactions and Cautions

Diltiazem can interact with other heart-rate–lowering medicines, such as certain beta blockers, which may increase the risk of slow pulse or conduction problems. Grapefruit and some strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers can affect diltiazem levels. It may change levels of drugs like digoxin, certain statins, and cyclosporine. Always tell your healthcare professional about all medicines, vitamins, and herbals you take. Avoid alcohol excess, which can worsen dizziness or low blood pressure.

What to Expect Over Time

Blood pressure response is typically gradual. Chest discomfort during activity may become less frequent with regular use. This medicine does not treat sudden chest pain; keep your rescue plan handy as advised by your prescriber. Stay consistent with daily dosing and attend follow-up visits. For lifestyle tips alongside therapy, see Treat Hypertension and related resources like Bystolic Works.

Compare With Alternatives

Other calcium channel blockers may be considered if this option is not suitable. Verapamil is another non dihydropyridine agent that can slow heart rate and reduce angina. A dihydropyridine option like Amlodipine focuses more on blood vessel relaxation and is often used for blood pressure control. Your prescriber selects based on your health profile and goals.

Pricing and Access

Compare options and buy Diltiazem HCL CD online when your prescription is ready. Many people look for Diltiazem CD Canadian pricing to manage ongoing therapy costs. See the product page for current availability and any listed offers. Orders Ships from Canada to US to help lower cash-pay expenses for eligible patients. We use encrypted checkout to protect your information.

Availability and Substitutions

Stock may vary by strength and manufacturer over time. If a particular capsule is unavailable, your prescriber may recommend an equivalent formulation or a different strength in the same class. When appropriate, a clinician might approve a substitution to maintain therapy continuity. If needed, you can consider Diltiazem HCL extended-release capsules buy options after consulting your prescriber.

Patient Suitability and Cost-Saving Tips

This therapy may suit adults with hypertension or chronic angina who do not have certain conduction problems or decompensated heart failure. It may not suit people with very low resting blood pressure or those with a known diltiazem allergy. If you Diltiazem CD pay out of pocket, ask your prescriber about multi-month supplies to reduce refill frequency. Consider a 60- or 90-day fill when appropriate. Set refill reminders so you do not run out before travel or holidays.

Questions to Ask Your Clinician

Is this calcium channel blocker the best choice for my condition?
How should I take it with my other heart medicines?
Which side effects mean I should call your office?
Are there food or beverage limits I should follow?
How will we monitor my blood pressure and heart rate?
What should I do if I experience new swelling or dizziness?
Could another agent be better if I develop side effects?

Authoritative Sources

Review official information before starting any new medicine:

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View All FAQs

What conditions does diltiazem CD treat?
Diltiazem extended-release capsules are prescribed to help manage high blood pressure and to reduce episodes of chronic stable or vasospastic angina. It works by relaxing blood vessels and lowering the heart’s workload. It is not for sudden chest pain. Your prescriber will decide if this class fits your health profile, current medicines, and monitoring needs, and will advise how to use it safely over time.
How should I take extended-release diltiazem capsules?
Take one capsule daily at the same time. Swallow it whole with water. Do not crush or chew extended-release capsules. Some brands allow sprinkling on soft food, but others do not. Follow the specific patient leaflet and your prescriber’s instructions. Keep a steady routine and avoid missed doses. If you are unsure about food timing or interactions, ask your healthcare professional.
What are common side effects of this medicine?
Common effects can include headache, dizziness, flushing, fatigue, ankle swelling, constipation, or nausea. Many effects are mild and improve as your body adjusts. Serious symptoms such as very slow heartbeat, fainting, shortness of breath, or swelling that rapidly worsens require prompt medical attention. Report any unusual symptoms to your clinician, especially if you take other heart medicines or have liver or kidney issues.
Can I drink grapefruit juice with diltiazem?
Grapefruit can change how diltiazem is processed in the body. That may raise levels and increase side effect risk in some people. It is usually best to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this therapy. If grapefruit is part of your diet, ask your prescriber or pharmacist about safer alternatives and whether you need any additional monitoring while on treatment.
What happens if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it when you remember on the same day. If it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as planned. Do not double up. Using reminders or a pill organizer can help prevent missed doses. If you miss several doses, contact your prescriber for guidance rather than restarting on your own.
Are there important drug interactions to know about?
Diltiazem can interact with beta blockers and other heart-rate–lowering medicines, which may increase the chance of slow pulse or conduction issues. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, inducers, and grapefruit can affect levels. It may change blood levels of digoxin, certain statins, and cyclosporine. Always share a complete medication list with your pharmacist or clinician so they can review for safety and monitoring needs.
Is this medicine safe for heart failure?
People with decompensated heart failure or certain conduction problems may not be good candidates. In some stable cases, clinicians may still use it with caution and monitoring. Report any new swelling, shortness of breath, or rapid weight gain to your prescriber. If you have a history of heart failure or cardiomyopathy, discuss risks and alternatives before starting any new blood pressure or angina therapy.