Diltiazem er 180 mg capsule

Need clear information on Diltiazem ER 180 mg capsules? This guide provides specific details regarding its use, potential side effects, and crucial safety precautions. We’ll cover dosage recommendations, interactions with other medications, and what to expect during treatment.

Dosage: Always follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage. Typical Diltiazem ER 180 mg regimens involve one capsule once daily, typically in the morning. Adjustments might be necessary based on your individual health needs and response to treatment. Never alter the dosage without consulting your physician.

Side Effects: Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. More serious, though less frequent, side effects require immediate medical attention. These include swelling in your ankles and feet, irregular heartbeat, and severe dizziness. Consult your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Drug Interactions: Diltiazem ER can interact negatively with several medications, including beta-blockers and certain antifungals. Provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are currently using to prevent potentially harmful interactions. Open communication is key.

Remember: This information is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance before starting or changing any medication regimen. Your health is paramount.

Diltiazem ER 180 mg Capsule: A Comprehensive Guide

Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. Diltiazem ER 180 mg capsules are used to manage high blood pressure and angina (chest pain). The extended-release formulation provides a slow and steady release of medication throughout the day.

Understanding Diltiazem ER 180 mg

This medication belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and reducing the workload on your heart.

• Dosage: Your doctor determines the correct dose based on your individual needs and response to treatment. Never adjust your dosage without consulting your physician.
• Administration: Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule. This will disrupt the controlled release mechanism.
• Frequency: Typically taken once daily, usually at the same time each day.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, and swelling in your ankles or feet. More serious, but less frequent, side effects can occur.

1. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience: severe dizziness, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, or chest pain.
2. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, as interactions can occur.
3. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor promptly.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Discuss the use of Diltiazem with your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if you experience any concerning side effects, your symptoms worsen, or you notice an unexpected change in your health.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance.

What is Diltiazem ER 180 mg and How Does it Work?

Diltiazem ER 180 mg is a sustained-release capsule containing 180 milligrams of diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker. This medication relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow to the heart.

How Diltiazem ER Works

Diltiazem’s mechanism involves blocking calcium from entering the heart and blood vessel walls. Reduced calcium influx leads to relaxed muscles, resulting in wider blood vessels and decreased heart rate. This reduces the workload on the heart and lowers blood pressure. The “ER” in Diltiazem ER stands for “extended release,” meaning the medication is released slowly over time for a consistent effect. This typically requires once-daily dosing.

Common Uses of Diltiazem ER 180 mg

Doctors prescribe Diltiazem ER 180 mg primarily for hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart). It can also be used to treat certain types of irregular heartbeats. Dosage and duration of treatment vary depending on individual needs and response. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Note: This information is for general knowledge only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance regarding Diltiazem ER 180 mg or any medication.

Common Uses and Conditions Treated

Diltiazem ER 180 mg capsules primarily manage hypertension (high blood pressure). This medication effectively lowers blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack. Regular use helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

Beyond hypertension, Diltiazem ER is frequently prescribed for angina pectoris, a type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. It works by relaxing blood vessels, improving blood flow and alleviating angina symptoms.

Certain types of supraventricular tachycardia (rapid heartbeat originating in the upper chambers of the heart) also respond well to Diltiazem ER treatment. It slows the heart rate, restoring a more regular rhythm.

Some physicians may prescribe Diltiazem ER to manage Prinzmetal’s angina (variant angina), a specific type of chest pain caused by coronary artery spasms. The medication helps prevent these spasms, thus reducing pain episodes.

Remember, this information serves as general guidance. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or altering any medication regimen. They can assess your individual needs and determine the appropriate dosage and treatment plan.

Dosage and Administration Instructions

Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely. The typical starting dose of Diltiazem ER 180 mg is one capsule once daily. Your doctor may adjust this based on your response and individual needs. They might increase the dosage gradually, but never exceed the prescribed amount.

Swallowing the Capsule

Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule. Doing so can alter the drug’s release profile, reducing its effectiveness and potentially causing side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Adjustments

Your doctor might recommend adjustments based on your blood pressure readings and overall health. Regular monitoring is key for optimal management. They might suggest a different dosage or a different medication altogether if necessary.

Dosage Chart (Example – Consult your physician for your specific needs)

Condition	Starting Dose (mg/day)	Maximum Dose (mg/day)
Hypertension	180	360
Angina	180	360

Note: This table provides example ranges only. Your actual dosage will be determined by your doctor. Always seek medical advice before altering your medication regimen.

Storage

Store Diltiazem ER 180 mg capsules at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Diltiazem ER 180 mg capsules, like all medications, can cause side effects. While many experience no issues, it’s crucial to be aware of potential problems.

Common Side Effects

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Edema (swelling in ankles and feet)

These side effects are usually mild and often subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or worsen, contact your doctor.

Less Common, but Serious Side Effects

• Slow heart rate (bradycardia): Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a significantly slow or irregular heartbeat.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension): Watch for symptoms like lightheadedness or fainting.
• Heart block: This is a serious condition requiring immediate medical care.
• Liver problems: Report any signs of jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) or unusual changes in urine color.
• Allergic reactions: Symptoms include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical help if you experience an allergic reaction.

It’s important to discuss any pre-existing health conditions with your doctor before starting Diltiazem ER. This includes heart conditions, liver or kidney disease, and certain types of allergies.

Precautions and Interactions

1. Grapefruit juice: Avoid grapefruit juice while taking Diltiazem ER, as it can increase blood levels of the medication leading to adverse effects.
2. Other medications: Diltiazem ER can interact with other drugs, including beta-blockers, digoxin, and certain antibiotics. Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking.
3. Driving and operating machinery: Diltiazem ER may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
4. Alcohol consumption: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Diltiazem ER, as it can worsen side effects.

This information is not exhaustive. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for complete information and personalized advice regarding Diltiazem ER 180 mg capsules.

Drug Interactions and What to Avoid

Diltiazem can interact negatively with several medications. Avoid grapefruit juice; it increases diltiazem levels in your blood, potentially leading to side effects.

Medication Interactions

Avoid concurrent use with: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like ketoconazole, ritonavir) as they significantly raise diltiazem concentrations. Beta-blockers can cause additive effects, potentially lowering your heart rate excessively. Digoxin levels may increase, necessitating careful monitoring. Simvastatin and other statins require dose adjustment to prevent muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis). Rifampin and other CYP3A4 inducers reduce diltiazem effectiveness. Certain antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), can interact, possibly leading to increased risk of heart rhythm issues. Always inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.

Herbal and Dietary Supplements

St. John’s Wort: This herbal supplement can also lower diltiazem blood levels and reduce its effectiveness. Avoid concurrent use. Consult your doctor before taking any herbal remedies or supplements while on diltiazem.

When to Consult Your Doctor

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or shortness of breath. These could indicate serious heart problems.

Report any significant swelling in your ankles, feet, or legs. This can be a sign of fluid retention.

Discuss dizziness or lightheadedness with your physician. These symptoms may require dosage adjustment.

If you notice unusual fatigue or weakness that doesn’t improve, schedule an appointment. Your doctor can assess the cause.

Report any new or worsening headaches, especially if severe. This is important for safety.

Inform your doctor if you experience nausea or vomiting that persists. This could be a side effect requiring attention.

Any unexpected changes in your bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, should be communicated to your doctor. They can help determine the cause.

Let your doctor know about any new or worsening allergic reactions. Diltiazem can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

If you develop symptoms suggestive of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), seek medical advice without delay.

Always contact your physician before starting, stopping, or changing your Diltiazem dosage. This ensures safe and effective medication management.

Storage and Disposal Guidelines

Store Diltiazem ER 180 mg capsules at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Protect them from moisture and light. Keep the medication in its original container.

Proper Disposal

Discard unused or expired Diltiazem ER capsules responsibly. Never flush medication down the toilet or throw it in the trash. Instead, use a medication take-back program or follow your local pharmacy’s disposal instructions. Many pharmacies offer safe disposal options. Check with your pharmacist or local waste management authority for specific guidance in your area. This ensures environmental protection and prevents accidental ingestion.