Tiazac

(Diltiazem Hydrochloride ER)

The active ingredient in Tiazac is diltiazem hydrochloride. Its mechanism of action includes affecting the movement of calcium ions, thereby inhibiting muscle contraction. This allows the blood vessels to relax, lowers blood pressure, and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

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 Tiazac. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Tiazac:

• This medication can be taken once daily. Ensure the capsule is swallowed whole.
• It can also be given by opening the capsule and sprinkling its contents on a spoonful of applesauce. The mixture should be swallowed immediately without chewing and followed with a glass of cool water to make sure you get the full dose.
• 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 Tiazac include:

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

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

• Heart problems: swelling, rapid weight gain, and feeling short of breath
• Heart rhythm changes: chest pain, irregular heartbeat, a slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Hepatic damage: dark urine, loss of appetite, and yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Severe allergic reaction: hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of your face, tongue, or throat
• Skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis: blistering or peeling skin, rash, chills, diarrhea, cough, joint or muscle pain, red irritated eyes, red skin lesions, often with a purple center, and sore throat

These are not all of the possible side effects of Tiazac. 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 Tiazac, 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:

• A serious heart condition, such as sick sinus syndrome or AV block (unless you have a pacemaker)
• Known allergy to this medication
• Liver problem
• Kidney disease
• Low blood pressure
• Heart disease, congestive heart failure, or a previous heart attack
• Heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), including ventricular fibrillation and atrial fibrillation

• Sick sinus syndrome or an AV block, unless you have a 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 diltiazem.

When Tiazac 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, including 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 Tiazac in a dry place at room temperature and away from the reach of children.

The manufacturer of Tiazac is Bausch Health Companies Inc.

There are lower-cost alternatives for the brand names Tiazac and Cardizem CD.

Before stopping this medication, consult your healthcare provider.

There are no well-controlled studies of using Tiazac during pregnancy. It should only be used if the possible benefit justifies the potential 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 HCl is passed into breast milk and is generally not recommended to be used 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.