Cardizem CD is a prescription drug that is used for treating angina and high blood pressure. This eMedTV page describes the effects of the drug, offers general dosing information, and explains what you should know before starting treatment.
Weakness, headache, and slow heart rate are some of the most common Cardizem CD side effects. This eMedTV page lists other possible side effects, including side effects that are less common but potentially serious and require medical attention.
Impotence has been reported as a rare but possible side effect of Cardizem CD. This article from the eMedTV Web site provides more information on Cardizem CD and impotence, and explains what your doctor may recommend if this side effect occurs.
It is possible to develop a dry mouth while taking Cardizem CD. This part of the eMedTV library further explores the link between Cardizem CD and dry mouth, explains how common this side effect appears to be, and offers tips for dry mouth relief.
In studies where people took Cardizem CD, depression was reported as a possible side effect. This eMedTV article discusses how common this side effects appears to be with people taking the drug and explains what you can do if depression occurs.
For those who are taking Cardizem CD, weight gain is a potential side effect. As this eMedTV segment explains, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or prescribe another angina or blood pressure drug if you develop weight gain during treatment.
Cardizem CD uses are primarily focused on the treatment of high blood pressure and chest pain. As this eMedTV article explains, however, the drug can also be used off-label for treating migraines, arrhythmias, and diabetic nephropathy.
The recommended Cardizem CD dosage for treating chest pain is 120 to 180 mg once daily. This eMedTV Web page also provides Cardizem CD dosing guidelines for the treatment of high blood pressure and includes tips for when and how to take the drug.
Certain medicines may cause Cardizem CD drug interactions, including digoxin, rifampin, and beta blockers. This eMedTV article explains what may happen during Cardizem CD interactions and lists other drugs that may cause a negative interaction.
Cardizem CD can cause fluid retention. This segment from the eMedTV archives lists other side effects or complications that may occur with Cardizem CD. Warnings and precautions on who should not use the medication are also included.
If you take too much Cardizem CD, overdose symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, and fluid retention. This eMedTV article describes other symptoms that may occur and explains what treatment options are available for a Cardizem CD overdose.
The full risks of using Cardizem CD while pregnant are not known at this time. As this eMedTV page explains, however, studies on Cardizem CD and pregnancy show that the drug caused miscarriages and birth defects when it was given to pregnant animals.
The manufacturer of Cardizem CD recommends avoiding breastfeeding while using the drug. This eMedTV resource offers more information on Cardizem CD and breastfeeding, and further explains why the drug may not be safe for use while nursing.
Generic Cardizem CD is sold under a few different names and is made by several manufacturers. This eMedTV segment describes generic Cardizem CD in more detail, including a list of the various names and strengths that are available.
