Dilzem SR (diltiazem SR) is a calcium channel blocker used to help manage hypertension, angina, heart arrhythmias, and similar conditions. The SR in this product's name indicates it's the extended-release version of the medication, typically taken just twice per day.

This product is very similar to, and often confused with, Cardizem SR, as well as numerous other similar products, including Tildiem LA, Viazem XL, and others. It can further be confused with regular versions (not extended-release) of these products like Cardizem, Tildiem, Dilzem, etc; though they all contain the same active ingredient and are used for similar conditions, nearly all of these have different dosage & administration guidelines.

All these names and slight variations can quickly become very confusing. Patients are welcome to contact us to ensure the correct medication is purchased.

Dilzem SR is intended for adult use and should not be used in patients under age 18 without explicit doctor approval.

Dilzem SR Uses

This medication is approved to treat:

• Mild to moderate hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Exercise-induced angina (chest pain)

Off-label (which is legal provided a doctor prescribed the medication) uses include:

• Certain heart arrhythmias
• Cluster headaches
• Migraine headaches
• Raynaud's disease/phenomenon
• Tardive dyskinesia

It may also be used for other purposes not listed above. Off-label uses can be quite varied as far as dosage & administration; patients are advised to find a doctor familiar with using Dilzem SR to treat a given condition as well as do their own research.

Product Description

Dilzem SR comes in capsules. Like most extended-release medications, capsules must not be split, chewed, dissolved, or otherwise damaged; doing so destroys the extended-release properties and capsules will not work as intended. Patients who have difficulty swallowing whole capsules should speak with a doctor about alternative options.

The medication relaxes the smooth muscle of arterial walls, increasing their inner diameter, allowing blood to flow with less restriction, lowering blood pressure and reducing strain on the heart. Dilzem SR also encourages the heart to slow the speed and strength of individual heartbeats, producing a further reduction in blood pressure and heart strain.

While Dilzem SR is convenient and works very well for many patients, others find more fast-acting versions---taken more frequently through the day---produce better results. This is largely a matter of individual response and should be discussed with a doctor.

Taking Dilzem SR

In all conditions---including off-label---Dilzem SR is a long term medication; it provides no benefit if taken sporadically. It takes about two weeks of regular use before significant benefit is seen, be it for blood pressure or migraines.

With the exception of lowering blood pressure, Dilzem SR is also a preventive medication. It prevents angina, arrhythmias, headaches, etc. This does not necessarily mean they'll never occur; patients may still experience the occasional angina attack, or the occasional migraine. Dilzem SR will do nothing to stop a current attack and a doctor will likely prescribe something---such as nitroglycerin for angina---for patients to keep on-hand in case they're needed.

Standard dosage & administration guidelines for otherwise healthy adults:

• Most patients are started on one 90 mg capsule taken twice per day (total 180 mg per day).
• Elderly patients may be started on one 60 mg capsule taken twice per day (total 120 mg per day).
• Each dose should be taken with a glass of fluid.

Dilzem SR should be producing measurable or noticeable results around 14 days after starting treatment; lowered blood pressure and fewer incidences of angina, headaches, etc. Use may continue for as long as the medication provides benefit.

It's not unusual for other medications to further treat a condition to be given along with Dilzem SR, particularly for hypertension. Be aware that other medications can influence Dilzem SR; adjustments may be necessary when other medications are added, removed, or modified. It is not advisable to take other medications of any type---including over-the-counter varieties---without doctor approval.

Warnings & Side Effects

All calcium channel blockers will lower blood pressure and slow heart rate, regardless of what they're taken to treat. Patients who have any medical condition or who take medications that reduce blood pressure and/or influence heart rate should use this product with caution. Elderly patients are also at increased risk of serious complications.

Other medical conditions that may cause Dilzem SR dosage to be lower or make the medication unsuitable include:

• Sick sinus syndrome
• Severe bradycardia (slow heartbeat)
• Heart failure
• Left ventricular failure
• Atrioventricular block
• Kidney or liver impairment

Patients with the above should be sure to discuss risks with a doctor before taking any calcium channel blocker.

Other medications known to interact with Dilzem SR include:

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

Most side effects associated with Dilzem SR are mild and not cause for concern, including:

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

The above usually stop occurring as the body adjusts to treatment; speak with a doctor if severe or persistant.

Dilzem SR should be avoided if pregnant or breastfeeding.

If too much medication is taken, or the medication is taken by an unintended recipient, emergency medical attention is warranted.