Who Should Not Take Diltiazem?

You should not take Diltiazem if:

• You are allergic to this drug or any ingredients in it.
• If you have certain heart problems, such as hypotension, acute myocardial infarction with pulmonary congestion, second or third-degree atrioventricular block, or sick sinus syndrome.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have liver disease
• Have kidney disease

The listed above are not the only conditions in which you should not take this medication. Discuss your health and medical history with your doctor to ensure Diltiazem is safe for you to take.

What Is the Most Common Side Effect of Diltiazem?

The most common side effect of Diltiazem is edema, or swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, and face. This is caused by fluid retention in these areas because the drug relaxes the blood vessels and reduces blood pressure.

Other common side effects may include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Flushing
• Headache
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea

Note that the list above does not include all of the potential side effects of Diltiazem. If you experience any other symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately.

It is important to keep in mind that everyone’s body reacts differently to medication. While some people may experience few or no side effects with Diltiazem, others may be more sensitive and have stronger reactions.

What to Avoid While Taking Diltiazem?

While taking Diltiazem you should avoid the following:

• Grapefruit – Grapefruit products can increase the levels of diltiazem in your blood, enhancing its effects and side effects.
• Alcohol – Drinking alcohol while taking diltiazem can lower your blood pressure further and may increase the risk of dizziness or fainting.
• Other blood pressure medication – Taking diltiazem with other medications that lower blood pressure can increase the risk of hypotension.

The list above does not include all of the potential interactions between Diltiazem and other substances. Be sure to discuss with your doctor any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter ones, natural supplements, or herbal remedies.

How Long Does It Take for Diltiazem to Work?

Diltiazem is quite a fast-acting drug and it should start working almost immediately after taking it. The full effects of this drug can take up to a week or two to appear, but you should begin to feel it helping with your blood pressure levels shortly after taking it.

However, this also depends on factors like how severe the high blood pressure is and what other medications are being taken at the same time. A doctor will be able to give you more information about what to expect in your individual case.

Take care to follow instructions regarding how often and when to take the medication. Taking it at the wrong time or not following a schedule may reduce its effectiveness and prevent you from seeing any improvements in your condition.

It is also important that Diltiazem is taken for as long as prescribed by your doctor, even if you begin to feel better after a few days of taking it.

What Is the Typical Dosage for Diltiazem?

The exact dosage of Diltiazem will depend on a range of factors and your doctor will be the one to decide what dosage is best for you.

Generally, it is prescribed at first in a low dose and then gradually increased to higher doses if needed. The typical starting dose is 30 mg taken four times a day. The dosage can be increased up to 360 mg a day.

Can You Buy Diltiazem Over-The-Counter (OTC)?

No, you can not purchase Diltiazem over-the-counter (OTC). This drug is only available with a valid prescription from a doctor or other healthcare provider.

Can You Get Diltiazem Online?

Yes, you can get an online prescription for Diltiazem from DrHouse. DrHouse offers a safe and secure telehealth service where you can start on-demand virtual consultations with a licensed doctor. The doctor can assess your medical history and evaluate whether Diltiazem is the right medication for you.

How Do I Get an Online Prescription for Diltiazem?

Getting an online prescription is simple and fast with DrHouse. All you have to do is:

• Sign up
• Download our telehealth app
• Fill in your personal information
• Answer a few questions about your medical history
• Start an on-demand virtual visit with one of our healthcare providers

Once you have started the virtual visit, your provider will determine whether you are a good candidate for Diltiazem. If they deem it to be an appropriate treatment option for you, they will issue an online prescription which can then be filled at any pharmacy of your choice.

Can I Get a Refill for Diltiazem From DrHouse?

Yes, you can get a refill for Diltiazem from DrHouse. To refill your Diltiazem prescription, start an on-demand virtual visit with one of our healthcare providers. During the visit, they will assess your condition and determine if a refill is required.

If they deem it to be an appropriate treatment option for you, they will issue an online prescription which can then be filled at any pharmacy of your choice.

What Are Some Other Medications Available for Treating High Blood Pressure?

While calcium channel blockers such as Diltiazem may be effective in managing high blood pressure, they are not the only option. Other classes of drugs used to treat hypertension include:

Diuretics

• Hydrochlorothiazide
• Chlorthalidone (Thalitone)
• Indapamide (Lozol)
• Furosemide (Lasix)
• Spironolactone (Aldactone)

ACE Inhibitors

• Lisinopril (Prinivil)
• Enalapril (Vasotec)
• Ramipril (Altace)
• Quinapril (Accupril)

ARBs

• Losartan (Cozaar)
• Valsartan (Diovan)
• Irbesartan (Avapro)
• Telmisartan (Micardis)

Beta Blockers

• Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol-XL)
• Atenolol (Tenormin)
• Bisoprolol (Zebeta)
• Propranolol (Inderal)

Alpha Blockers

• Doxazosin (Cardura)
• Prazosin (Minipress)
• Terazosin

Note that this list is not exhaustive and there are other medications that may be used to manage high blood pressure as well. Also, each of the medications mentioned above works differently and has different side effects.

You should always talk to a doctor about which medication is best for you.

What Are Some Other Calcium Channel Blockers Available?

What Are Some Other Calcium Channel Blockers Available?

Aside from Diltiazem, other calcium channel blockers are available for treating high blood pressure. These include:

• Amlodipine (Norvasc)
• Felodipine (Plendil)
• Nifedipine (Procardia)
• Isradipine (Dynacirc)
• Nicardipine (Cardene)
• Verapamil (Calan)
• Nimodipine (Nimotop)

The list above is not exhaustive and other options may be available depending on your individual needs.

Also, each of these medications works differently and has different side effects.

Your doctor will recommend the best medication for you based on your health condition, medical history, and other medications you may be taking.