Dilgard XL (diltiazem XL) is a calcium channel blocker primarily used to lower blood pressure, reduce the frequency and severity of angina, and reduce strain on the heart. Less commonly it may be used to help treat arrhythmias and other issues, though these uses are usually off-label.

The XL in this product's name indicates it is an extended-release version, meaning it is typically taken just once or twice per day, while fast-acting versions may need to be taken four times per day.

This product should not be used in patients under age 18 without explicit doctor approval.

How Dilgard XL Works

Dilgard XL, like all calcium channel blockers, relaxes blood vessel walls. Relaxed blood vessels are wider, which improves blood flow and delivers more blood and oxygen to the heart muscle. Calcium channel blockers also slow heartbeat speed and reduce heartbeat strength. All together these actions lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of angina, and reduce overall heart strain.

While Dilgard XL can be very effective in what it treats, note that it is not a cure. The condition will almost certainly return when treatment ends unless other methods to address it have also been taken. Patients who do not address the issue via other methods will most likely need to take Dilgard XL, or a similar medication, for the remainder of life.

Dosage & Administration

Dilgard XL comes in tablets or capsules, both of which must be swallowed whole. Destroying the integrity of the capsule or tablet will allow all of the medication to be released at once, ruining its XL properties and putting the patient at risk of overdose.

Capsules and tablets may be taken with or without food according to personal preference. Taking with a glass of fluid is recommended.

Dosage should be determined by a doctor; there are many personal factors that can influence dosage, not the least of which is the condition being treated and its severity. Other factors include other medical conditions present, other medications being taken, age, weight, and so forth. Other medications that address the same issue as Dilgard XL may or may not also be administered.

General treatment guidelines are:

• Patients typically take each dose once per day, though sometimes the daily dose is divided into two smaller doses.
• Regardless of how often doses are taken per day, they should be taken at the same times each day.
• Results should be evaluated after 14 days; dosage may be increased or decreased depending on patient response and tolerance to side effects.
• Most patients find 240 mg to 360 mg per day effective, but there is some variance in dosage levels.

Dilgard XL can be taken for as long as it provides benefit. Note that Dilgard XL use should not end abruptly, particularly if it has been used over the long-term. Suddenly stopping treatment may have cardiovascular consequences.

Other Drug Interactions

Caution is warranted in patients receiving Dilgard XL and taking other medications that produce similar cardiovascular effects. Other medications of concern include:

• Digoxin
• Cimitidine
• Azole antifungals
• Macrolide antibiotics
• Benzodiapines
• Rifamycins
• St. John's wort
• Aprepitant
• Buspirone
• Ivabradine
• Cold or flu medications
• NSAIDs

The above is not a complete list, and taking any of the above does not necessarily rule out use of Dilgard XL. However, in the interest of safety, talk with a doctor or pharmacist before mixing treatments.

Potential Side Effects

Most side effects associated with Dilgard XL are mild and not cause for concern, including:

• Nausea
• Flushing
• Constipation
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache

The above only need to be brought to the attention of a physician if severe or persistant. They will usually stop occurring as the body adjusts to treatment.

More rarely more serious side effects may occur, which warrant medical attention:

• Fainting
• Severe or persistent nausea or vomiting
• Mental or mood changes
• Severe weakness or fatigue
• Severe stomach or abdominal pain
• Jaundice
• Irregular, rapid, or pounding heartbeat

Dilgard XL should be avoided by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.