Factors that affect Cardizem® dosage includes existing medical conditions the patient may have and other medications being taken. Cardizem® is a medication used in the treatment of angina or chest pain and the usual starting dosage is 30 mg taken four times a day. It is usually taken prior to meals and before going to bed. Other factors that affect Cardizem® dosage are severity of symptoms and type and characteristics of anginal episodes. Most of the time, angina occurs during exercise, but another type of angina can occur at rest.
Other factors affecting Cardizem® dosage include the presence or absence of side effects. Although most people tolerate this medication well, others do not. When side effects do occur, the Cardizem® dosage can be reduced. Common side effects of this medication include swelling of the hands and feet, nausea and dizziness. In addition, rash, weakness, and fatigue can occur. Swelling of the feet and hands can also indicate congestive heart failure, which, if not treated, can lead to heart attack and stroke.
Potentially serious side effects can occur while taking Cardizem®, including irregular heart rhythm, chest pain, and low blood pressure. Other serious side effects may include high blood sugar, depression, fainting, and dizziness. Although rare, swelling of the throat can occur, as can wheezing, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing. When these symptoms develop, emergency medical evaluation and treatment needs to be sought. Alternative treatments in the management of chest pain can be equally effective.
Very rare side effects of Cardizem® include taste changes, abnormal dreams, flushing, and ringing in the ears. Other rare events include nosebleeds, shakiness, and amnesia. If these side effects occur, the physician should be notified who can adjust the Cardizem® dosage. Ringing in the ears is a particularly annoying side effect and although it typically resolves when the medication is discontinued, it may become chronic. Other medications that cause ringing in the ears or tinnitus include aspirin.
Cardizem® should not be taken by pregnant women because it may not be safe. Taking this medication while pregnant may cause potential risks to the fetus, although studies have not been conducted on the effects of this medication in pregnant women. Women who are nursing a baby should discuss taking Cardizem® with their physicians who can discuss potential benefits versus the risks. Angina during pregnancy needs to be evaluated to determine if it has been long-standing or is a result of the pregnancy.