Diltiazem 5mg

Diltiazem 5mg — Uses and Benefits

Diltiazem is used to manage high blood pressure and heart-related chest pain (angina), and sometimes to control certain irregular heart rhythms.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Controlling high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Preventing episodes of angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart)
• Helping control certain types of abnormal heart rhythms as directed by a cardiologist

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks calcium from entering muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels
• This relaxes and widens blood vessels, lowering blood pressure
• It also reduces how hard the heart has to work, easing chest pain
• It can slow down certain electrical signals in the heart to control irregular heartbeats

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a painkiller for general body pain
• It does not treat infections
• It is not meant for sudden severe chest pain emergencies without medical supervision
• It is not a substitute for lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and weight control

How to Use Diltiazem 5mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with or without food at the same time each day
• Swallow tablets/capsules whole with water unless your doctor says otherwise; do not crush or chew extended-release forms
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your heart condition
• Continue taking it even if you feel well, since it controls but does not cure the condition
• Avoid grapefruit juice unless your doctor says it is safe

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, set reminders or ask your pharmacist for help

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Diltiazem 5mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Flushing (warmth or redness of skin)
• Swelling of ankles or feet
• Fatigue or weakness

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Constipation
• Low blood pressure
• Slow heart rate
• Skin rash

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Very slow or irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, throat
• Severe swelling of legs or sudden weight gain
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Chest pain that worsens or does not go away

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Diltiazem 5mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is prescription-only in India and should be taken only under a doctor's supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to diltiazem or any other ingredient in the product
• Have very low blood pressure
• Have a severe heart block or certain rhythm disorders not being treated with a pacemaker
• Have severe heart failure that is not well controlled

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have liver or kidney disease
• Have a history of heart failure or slow heart rate
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are taking other blood pressure or heart medicines
• Are elderly, as dose adjustments may be needed

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Beta-blockers and other blood pressure medicines
• Digoxin (heart medicine)
• Certain statins used for cholesterol
• Antifungal or antibiotic medicines that affect liver enzymes
• Cimetidine or other acid-reducing medicines
• Alcohol, which may increase dizziness

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

It may cause dizziness, so avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

Can I take this with other blood pressure tablets?

Only if your doctor has specifically prescribed the combination, as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

• Usually it is a long-term treatment for chronic conditions like hypertension or angina, so continue as long as your doctor advises.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.