Diltiazem Dosage (Cont.)

General Diltiazem Dosage Information

Some considerations for people taking diltiazem include:
 
  • Diltiazem comes in the form of a capsule or tablet. Diltiazem is taken by mouth, one to four times daily, depending on the particular diltiazem product.
     
  • You can take most diltiazem products with or without food. However, Dilacor XR®, Diltia XT®, and Dilt-XR® capsules should be taken on an empty stomach. Regular Cardizem tablets (not Cardizem CD® or Cardizem LA®) should be taken before meals.
     
  • Diltiazem capsules are extended release and should not be crushed or chewed. Be sure to swallow them whole. However, Tiazac® and Taztia XT® capsules can be opened, and you can sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should not be hot, and you should immediately swallow it whole (without chewing); follow the applesauce with a glass of water.
     
  • Cardizem LA® tablets are extended release and should not be cut, crushed, or chewed.
     
  • Diltiazem should be taken at the same time(s) each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
     
  • For diltiazem to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Diltiazem will not work if you stop taking it.
     
Pages:

Previous 1   2

Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;