Basic Cardizem Information

• International Nonproprietary Name (INN): Diltiazem
• Brand names available in Australia: Cardizem, Cardizem CD
• ATC Code: C08DB01
• Forms & dosages: Tablets (30 mg, 60 mg, 120 mg), Extended-release capsules (60 mg, 120 mg, 180 mg)
• Manufacturers in Australia: Bausch Health, Mylan, Pfizer
• Registration status in Australia: Prescription only
• OTC / Rx classification: Prescription only (Rx)

Morning Vs Evening Dosing (Australian Daily Routines)

Daily life in Australia can be quite busy, filled with work, family commitments, and social activities. Many people establish routines that dictate when they take medications. For those on Cardizem, timing can be essential. It’s crucial to take the medication at the same time every day to maintain stable levels in the bloodstream and optimise its effectiveness. Some patients may prefer taking Cardizem in the morning, aligning it with their daily schedule to avoid any potential disturbance to their evening activities or sleep patterns. On the other hand, patients experiencing side effects that could affect their daytime focus may find it better to dose in the evening, aiming to minimise the impact during waking hours. Ultimately, the choice between morning or evening dosing can hinge on individual preferences, lifestyle commitments, and how one’s body reacts to the medication.

Taking With Or Without Meals

Understanding how food influences the absorption of Cardizem is vital for maximising its benefits. Meals can affect the bioavailability of Diltiazem, the active ingredient in Cardizem. Taking the medication with food may slow down its absorption, but it can help alleviate any gastrointestinal discomfort that some might experience. For best results, here are guidelines to consider:

• Take Cardizem at the same time each day, with or without food, as per your doctor's instructions.
• If comfortable, try taking it consistently with meals to avoid stomach upset while ensuring effective absorption.
• Avoid high-fat meals right before taking Cardizem; they may further slow absorption.

Individual responses to the medication can vary. Therefore, continually monitor how your body reacts and discuss any concerns with your healthcare professional. They can provide tailored advice on the timing and dietary considerations to optimise the effectiveness of Cardizem.

Who Should Avoid It (TGA Safety Notices)

Many individuals may have concerns about whether Cardizem is suitable for them. Understanding its contraindications can help safeguard health and avoid adverse effects.

Cardizem, the brand name for diltiazem, is a popular medication used primarily for managing angina and hypertension. However, it's crucial to be aware of specific conditions under which its use is contraindicated.

• Severe hypotension
• Second- or third-degree AV block (without a pacemaker)
• Sick sinus syndrome (without a pacemaker)
• Acute myocardial infarction with pulmonary congestion
• Known allergy to diltiazem or any excipients in the medication

According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) guidelines, patients with these conditions should avoid Cardizem. The TGA emphasises the importance of informing healthcare professionals about any pre-existing medical conditions before starting treatment to ensure safety.

For those uncertain about their eligibility to take Cardizem, medical advice should be sought promptly. Emphasis is placed on the potential risks associated with misuse and the importance of patient awareness regarding existing health conditions.

Activities to Limit (Driving, Machinery, Workplace Safety)

Patients often wonder how starting a new medication like Cardizem could impact their daily life, particularly in relation to activities such as driving or operating machinery. Diltiazem is known to cause side effects that may impair one’s ability to perform these tasks safely.

Common side effects associated with Cardizem include:

• Dizziness and tiredness
• Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
• Swelling, particularly of the legs
• Nausea and headache

Given these potential effects, it is advisable for individuals to carefully evaluate their responsiveness to this medication before engaging in activities requiring full concentration and coordination.

To ensure safety in daily life, several recommendations should be followed:

• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until the body has fully adjusted to the medication.
• Consult a healthcare provider about the safety of continuing work activities that require alertness.
• Monitor how the medication affects everyday tasks and report any concerning symptoms to a doctor.

Engagement in physical activities, particularly those requiring balance or fine motor skills, should be approached with caution. Cardizem can alter physical responses, and prioritising one’s safety and the safety of others is paramount.

Transitioning onto medications like Cardizem can be an adjustment. Patients are encouraged to stay informed about their treatment and express any concerns to their healthcare providers. Ultimately, staying proactive about one’s health leads to better outcomes.

Dosage & Adjustments

General Regimen (PBS-listed Guidelines)

Patients often wonder about the correct dosage of medications for hypertension and angina. For Cardizem, standard dosages for these conditions typically range between:

• 120–180 mg daily for angina (divided doses).
• 180–240 mg daily for hypertension (extended-release forms).

The PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme) lists guidelines indicating these dosages, ensuring healthcare professionals prescribe effectively while considering patient safety. It’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines while prescribing Cardizem to ensure optimal efficacy without excessive dosing, which can lead to adverse effects.

Special Cases (Elderly, Indigenous Health, Comorbidities)

Some groups require careful consideration when prescribed Cardizem. For elderly patients, lower starting doses are recommended due to their increased sensitivity to medication influences. It's vital to titrate slowly to gauge their response while keeping safety in focus.

In addition, adjustments may be necessary for those with renal or hepatic impairment. Comorbidities like heart failure or various chronic conditions also call for a tailored approach:

• Elderly patients may need 60 mg initially.
• For Indigenous health concerns, cultural and community health perspectives must inform treatment plans.
• Patients with kidney impairment should be monitored closely, as renal function influences drug metabolism.

Ultimately, dosing adjustments hinge upon individual health conditions to maximise therapeutic benefits while minimising risks associated with Cardizem.

Delivery Information Table