Cardizem LA

Cardizem LA is a medication that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure and certain types of angina. It works by slowing down the rate at which calcium moves into your heart and blood vessel walls. Cardizem LA comes in the form of extended-release tablets that are usually taken once daily. Potential side effects include dizziness, fatigue, and cough.

Information on Cardizem LA

What Is Cardizem LA?

Cardizem LA^® (diltiazem hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (angina).

(Click Cardizem LA Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes Cardizem LA?

Cardizem LA is made by Abbott Pharmaceuticals. Generic Cardizem LA is made by several manufacturers and is sold under various names.

How Does It Work?

Cardizem LA is part of a class of drugs called

calcium channel blockers. It helps slow down the rate at which calcium moves into your heart and blood vessel walls. This, in turn, helps to relax the vessels, which allows better blood flow and helps to lower 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 is that non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can decrease the heart rate, while dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers do not. Cardizem LA is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, which means that it can decrease the heart rate, which makes it useful for certain types of irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

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