Cardizem - Is It The Right Treatment For You High Blood Pressure

What is Cardizem?
Cardizem is a medication used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), angina (chest pain), and certain heart rhythm disorders. Cardizem is a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels allowing blood to pass more freely thereby reducing blood pressure.

How To Take Cardizem
Cardizem should be taken whole, never crushed or chewed, and should be taken at the same time every day with a full glass of water. You should not stop taking Cardizem suddenly as it may make your condition worse. Even if you feel well do not stop taking Cardizem unless directed to do so by your doctor.

If you are pregnant do not take Cardizem as it can cause harm to your unborn child. Cardizem is excreted in breast milk, therefore nursing mothers are encouraged to not use Cardizem.

Side Effects
As with any prescription medications, side effects may occur. Cardizem can effect your thinking and reactions, therefore do not drive or do anything that requires you to be alert until you see how you react to Cardizem. Make sure to tell your doctor of any other medications you are taking including non-prescription medications and herbal supplements. if you are allergic to any drugs be sure to let your doctor know. It is very important that your doctor know of any medical conditions that you have including kidney disease, liver disease, or congestive heart failure as Cardizem may not be the best choice for you.

Other Important Information
While on Cardizem treatment your blood pressure will need to be monitored on a regular basis. Your doctor may adjust your dosage of Cardizem depending on these results. Your doctor may also recommend kidney and liver function testing while on or before prescribing Cardizem.

Cardizem may be the right choice for treating your hypertension but remember only you and your doctor can determine if Cardizem is right for you.

About the Author
Maryann is an avid researcher of hypertension (high blood pressure) treatments and medications such as Cardizem and runs a successful website dedicated to providing consumers with answers to their hypertension medication questions. For more information on the different types of hypertension medications please visit Maryann's site at www.hypertensionmedsreview.com.