Dilacor

Dilacor XR is used for treating high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain. This prescription medication works by relaxing the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood. Dilacor XR comes in the form of an extended-release capsule that is typically taken once a day. Possible side effects include nausea, back pain, and a sore throat.

 

What Is Dilacor XR?

Dilacor XR® (diltiazem hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (angina).
 
(Click Diltiazem Uses for more information on what Dilacor XR is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Dilacor XR?

Dilacor XR is made by Watson Pharmaceuticals. Generic Dilacor XR is made by several manufacturers and is sold under various names, including Diltia XT® and Dilt-XR®.
 

How Does Dilacor XR Work?

Dilacor XR is part of a class of drugs called
 calcium channel blockers. Dilacor XR helps to slow down the rate at which calcium moves into your heart and blood vessel walls. This, in turn, helps to relax the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. This also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
 
There are two basic types of calcium channel blockers: dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine. The most important difference between the two types is that non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can slow down the heart rate, while dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers do not. Dilacor XR is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, which means that it can decrease the heart rate. Because of this, Dilacor XR is useful for treating certain types of irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;