What is the dosage and how should it be used?
Diltiazem comes as a tablet and an extended or dual-release (long-acting) capsule to be taken by mouth.
The tablet is usually taken three or four times a day with or without food.
On the other hand, the capsule is usually taken one or two times a day. Remember to swallow the capsules whole and never split, chew, or crush them.
The extended-release capsule (Cardizem SR®, Dilacor XR®, and Diltia XT®) should be taken on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
The extended-release capsule (Tiazac®) may be taken with or without food.
The dual-release capsule (Cardizem CD®) may be taken with food.
Take diltiazem exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.
Why is this medication prescribed?
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?