Cardizem

Cardizem is a prescription medication used for treating certain types of chest pain. It is a type of calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the blood vessels, which makes it easier for the heart to pump blood. Cardizem tablets, which are available in various strengths, are generally taken three or four times daily. Potential side effects include rash, nausea, and dizziness.

 

What Is Cardizem?

Cardizem® (diltiazem hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of chest pain (angina).
 
(Click Cardizem Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Cardizem?

Cardizem is made by Biovail Pharmaceuticals. Generic Cardizem is made by various manufacturers.
 

Forms of Cardizem

This article focuses on regular (short-acting) Cardizem.
 In addition to regular Cardizem, there are long-acting forms of the drug, including:
 
  • Cardizem LA®, an extended-release form
  • Cardizem CD®, a controlled-release form.
     
Cardizem SR® is a twice-a-day form that is no longer being made and is no longer available.
 
These different forms of Cardizem can vary in what they are used for, how they are taken, their strength, what other drugs they may interact with, and their shape or color.
 
(Click Cardizem CD or Cardizem LA for more information on these different forms.)
 
(Cardizem Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;