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.
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.)
The brand-name drug is made by Biovail Pharmaceuticals. Generic versions are made by various manufacturers.
This article focuses on regular (short-acting) Cardizem. In addition to regular version, 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 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.)