Many side effects can occur with Cardizem LA, and impotence appears to be one of them. It was reported in less than 1 percent of men taking Cardizem (the short-acting version of Cardizem LA), which means that it is likely to occur with Cardizem LA as well. If you are taking Cardizem LA and impotence occurs, notify your healthcare provider immediately.
Can Cardizem LA Cause Impotence?
While the manufacturer did not report rare side effects for Cardizem LA specifically, rare side effects for other forms of diltiazem (the active ingredient of the drug) were reported. In studies, impotence was reported in less than 1 percent of men taking Cardizem (the short-acting version of Cardizem LA). It is assumed that impotence is also a rare side effect of Cardizem LA.
Impotence is usually defined as a total inability to achieve an erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. Ultimately, impotence is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Impotence is also known as
erectile dysfunction (or
ED for short).
Cardizem LA and Impotence: What Should You Do?
It is impossible for your healthcare provider to know if you will develop impotence while taking Cardizem LA.
It may also be difficult to know whether impotence is caused by the medication itself or other problems.
If you are taking Cardizem LA and impotence becomes a problem, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider. He or she may be able to recommend treatment options. Depending on how severe your symptoms are, he or she may also recommend that you take an erectile dysfunction medicine, adjust your Cardizem LA dosage, or try another angina or
blood pressure medication.