Diltiazem Tips from Pharmacists

• Diltiazem can cause you to feel dizzy and tired. Most patients find that these side effects get better after a few days once the body has gotten used to the medicine. Do not drive or do other hazardous activities until you know how it affects you. Arise slowly out of bed to prevent falls. Hold onto something when you get out of bed.

• You can take diltiazem with or without food. If you are on the regular tablets 3-4 times daily, taking your medicine with meals can make it easier to remember.

• You can crush or chew the regular tablets. However, you should swallow the extended-release formulations whole without cutting, crushing, or chewing them.

• Keep a log of your blood pressure readings and bring it to your healthcare appointments. Your doctor may adjust your diltiazem dose based on blood pressure control.

• Ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you how to measure your pulse (heart rate). Measure your heart rate every day and tell your doctor if it is slower than it should be.