Dilzem Cd 180

DILZEM CD 180 is a medication manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd. used to treat cardiovascular conditions.

Name

• Brand Name: DILZEM CD 180
• Common Name: Diltiazem Hydrochloride (extended-release)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Diltiazem 180 mg

Uses

DILZEM CD 180 is a calcium channel blocker used to treat various heart-related conditions. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload.

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Manages mild to moderate high blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Angina (Heart-Related Chest Pain): Treats chronic stable angina (effort-associated angina) and angina due to coronary artery spasms by increasing blood flow to the heart and preventing the narrowing of blood vessels. It helps relieve chest pain and can decrease the frequency and severity of angina episodes.
• Arrhythmia (Irregular Heartbeats): Used to control certain types of irregular heart rhythms.

Dosage and Administration

DILZEM CD 180 is an extended-release capsule typically taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at a fixed time each day as advised by a doctor. The capsules should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Dosage adjustments are made based on individual patient needs and medical conditions. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly, as it may worsen the condition.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Fatigue/Tiredness
• Nausea
• Flushing and redness of the skin
• Swelling in the hands, feet, and ankles (edema)
• Indigestion or stomach pain

Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced):

• Severe allergic reaction
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Fainting
• Slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
• Shortness of breath or new/worsening symptoms of heart failure
• Mental/mood changes, such as depression or agitation
• Severe stomach/abdominal pain

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Diltiazem or any of its components.
• Heart Conditions: Not recommended for patients with certain heart problems like severe irregular or slow heartbeat (sick sinus syndrome, AV block without a pacemaker), heart failure, or low blood pressure (hypotension).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Should be used with caution and only if clearly needed during pregnancy. It passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant, so alternative feeding methods should be considered. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception.
• Driving and Machinery: May cause dizziness or sleepiness, affecting vision or alertness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it may worsen side effects.
• Liver and Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment, and dosage may need careful adjustment.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken. Notable interactions include:
  • Dantrolene (muscle relaxant)
  • Ivabradine (for heart failure)
  • Digoxin
  • Beta-blockers (may have additive effects on cardiac conduction)
  • Other antihypertensive agents (may have an additive blood pressure-lowering effect)
  • Simvastatin (cholesterol-lowering)
  • Cimetidine (acid-reducing)
  • Grapefruit juice may increase the effects of Diltiazem.

Storage

Store DILZEM CD 180 below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not store in the bathroom.

Frequently Asked Questions about DILZEM CD 180

DILZEM CD 180 is an extended-release capsule containing diltiazem hydrochloride, a type of medicine known as a calcium channel blocker. It is manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

What is DILZEM CD 180 used for?

DILZEM CD 180 is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and manage chronic stable angina (chest pain related to the heart). It can also be used to prevent heart attacks and some types of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmia).

How does DILZEM CD 180 work?

DILZEM CD 180, containing diltiazem, works by inhibiting the movement of calcium ions into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This action relaxes and widens blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and allows more blood and oxygen to reach the heart. It also helps to slow the heart rate and reduce the heart's workload.

What is the usual dosage for DILZEM CD 180?

The usual starting dosage for DILZEM CD 180 for adults treating hypertension or angina is often 180 mg once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your individual needs and response to treatment. The maximum recommended dose typically does not exceed 360 mg/day, although some patients might respond to higher doses up to 480 mg once daily in some formulations. DILZEM CD 180 is an extended-release formulation designed for once-a-day administration.

What are the possible side effects of DILZEM CD 180?

Common side effects can include headache, dizziness, constipation, nausea, flushing, and rash. More serious, but less common, side effects that require immediate medical attention include slow or irregular heartbeat, continuous lightheadedness or dizziness, symptoms of heart failure (e.g., shortness of breath, swelling of ankles/feet), and signs of liver injury (e.g., yellowing skin/eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain).

Is DILZEM CD 180 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

DILZEM CD 180 is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as there are limited human data, and animal studies suggest it may be teratogenic. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor. Diltiazem is excreted in human breast milk, so alternative methods of infant feeding should be considered if the mother needs to take this medication.

Can DILZEM CD 180 be taken with other medications?

DILZEM CD 180 can interact with several other medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. Interactions can occur with:

• Beta-blockers, digoxin, and amiodarone: May have additive effects on cardiac conduction, potentially leading to abnormally slow heart rates or heart block.
• Certain statins (e.g., simvastatin, lovastatin, atorvastatin): Diltiazem can increase their levels, raising the risk of side effects like muscle pain.
• Dantrolene, ivabradine, and certain antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin, rifampicin) or antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole): These can affect how diltiazem works or increase its levels.
• Carbamazepine, cyclosporine, cimetidine: Diltiazem can increase the blood levels of these medications, potentially leading to increased side effects.
• Alcohol: Should be avoided as it may worsen side effects like dizziness and sleepiness.
• Grapefruit juice: May increase the effects of diltiazem.

What precautions should be taken while using DILZEM CD 180?

• Always take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not suddenly stop taking DILZEM CD 180, especially if you are taking it for angina, as this can worsen your condition.
• Be cautious when performing activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medicine affects you, as it may cause dizziness or sleepiness.
• Rise slowly when getting up from a sitting or lying position to prevent dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, very low blood pressure, heart failure, or certain types of abnormal heart rhythm.

What happens if a dose of DILZEM CD 180 is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. If you frequently miss doses, inform your doctor.

How should DILZEM CD 180 be stored?

DILZEM CD 180 should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture, and below 30°C. Keep it out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use the medicine beyond its expiry date.