Cardizem LA

(Diltiazem Hydrochloride LA)

The active ingredient in Cardizem LA is diltiazem hydrochloride. Its mechanism of action includes affecting the movement of calcium ions, thereby inhibiting muscle contraction and allowing for the blood vessels to relax.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Cardizem LA. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Cardizem LA:

• This medication can be taken once daily. Ensure the tablet is swallowed whole.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

The most common side effects of Cardizem LA seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Swelling in your legs and feet
• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Constipation
• Dry mouth

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Cardizem LA. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Worsening heart failure: trouble breathing, edema (swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands), sudden weight gain, and unusual weakness or fatigue
• Heart rhythm changes: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and a slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Hepatic damage: dark urine and yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Severe allergic reaction: hives, shortness of breath, and swelling of your face, tongue, and throat
• Skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis: blistering or peeling skin, diarrhea, chills, cough, muscle or joint pain, red irritated eyes, red skin lesions, often with a purple center, skin rash, sore throat, sores, ulcers

These are not all of the possible side effects of Cardizem LA. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Cardizem LA, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Cardiovascular conditions, including sick sinus syndrome or AV block (unless you have a pacemaker)
• Known allergy to this medication
• Liver disease
• Low blood pressure
• Heart disease, including congestive heart failure, heart attack, and heart block
• Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), including ventricular fibrillation and atrial fibrillation

• Sick sinus syndrome or an AV block, unless you have a ventricular pacemaker
• Known allergy to diltiazem or any of its inactive ingredients
• Uncontrolled hypotension
• Pulmonary congestion

It can take several weeks to see the full effects of Cardizem LA.

When Cardizem LA is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Amiodarone
• Benzodiazepines
• Digoxin
• Atazanavir
• Cimetidine
• Quinidine
• St. John's wort
• Rifampin
• Buspirone
• Cyclosporine
• Sirolimus
• Clonidine
• Ivabradine
• Cholesterol-lowering medications such as lovastatin and simvastatin
• Midazolam
• Triazolam
• Carbamazepine
• Anti-hypertensives, including beta-blockers such as propranolol

The dosage forms and formulations of diltiazem available include extended-release capsules, extended-release tablets, and regular oral tablets.

Store Cardizem LA in a dry place at room temperature and out of reach of children.

The manufacturer of Cardizem LA is Bausch Health Companies Inc.

There are lower-cost alternatives to the brand-name Cardizem LA. Other brand names of diltiazem available are Cardizem, Cardizem, Cartia XT, Cardizem CD, Dilacor XR, Taztia XT, and Tiazac.

Before stopping this medication, consult your healthcare provider. Stopping this medication suddenly can worsen your blood pressure and chest pain.

There are no well-controlled studies of pregnant women taking Cardizem LA. It should only be used if the possible benefits justify the possible risk to the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Diltiazem is passed into breast milk and is generally not recommended for use during lactation. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.