Dilatiazem is a popular calcium-channel blocker that works by relaxing blood vessels to reduce stress on the heart and increase its blood and oxygen supply. It is marketed under brand names including Cardizem, Tiazac, Cartia, Tiamate, Tildiem, Adizem, Viazem and Dilatam.
It is used to control hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina pectoris (chest pain), to treat some types of arrhythmia (irregular heart beat) and Raynaud's syndrome (sudden decreased blood circulation in fingers and toes), and for other "off label" uses to treat a variety of conditions.
But, although it controls hypertension and some types of angina, diltiazem does not cure these conditions. And, once chest pain starts, diltiazem cannot stop it, so a second medication is sometimes prescribed for this eventuality.
Studies have found that diltiazem can inhibit the motility of sperm, and it is thought that it raises the cholesterol level in sperm, making sperm less able to bind to an egg. Diatiazem is being used in vas irrigation for vasectomies and has even been considered as a male contraceptive. But while infertility induced by diatiazem is thought to be reversible, some cases of permanent male infertility have been reported.
Other side effects of diatiazem for which you should call your doctor if they persist include:
* Constipation
* Diarrhea
* Dry mouth
* Excessive tiredness
* Flushing or feeling of warmth
* Headache
* Lightheadedness or dizziness
* Loss of appetite
* Slower heartbeat
* Stomach pain
* Upset stomach
* Vomiting
Side effects of diatiazem for which you should call your doctor immediately include:
* Difficulty swallowing or breathing
* Fainting
* Fever
* Increase in severity or frequency of chest pain
* Rash
* Swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
* Yellowing of the eyes or skin
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment