Tiazac SR (Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended Release) – Comprehensive Product Description | EZ Chemist Online Pharmacy

What is Tiazac SR used for?
Tiazac SR is an extended-release form of diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), chronic stable angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders. It works by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow to the heart.

Product Name: Tiazac SR
Generic Name: Diltiazem Hydrochloride (Extended-Release)

Brand Names: Tiazac, Tiazac XC, Cardizem CD, Dilzem SR (regional)

Drug Class: Calcium Channel Blocker (Non-dihydropyridine class)

Formulation: Extended-Release Capsules

Prescription Status: Prescription-Only Medicine

Availability at EZ Chemist: Order Tiazac SR Online at EZ Chemist

Overview:
Tiazac SR is a once-daily, extended-release calcium channel blocker formulated with diltiazem hydrochloride. It is indicated for the treatment of essential hypertension, chronic stable angina, and certain types of arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation or flutter. By inhibiting calcium ion influx into vascular smooth muscle and myocardial cells, Tiazac SR helps reduce blood pressure and improve coronary artery blood flow.

Active Ingredient:
Diltiazem Hydrochloride (Extended-Release)

Molecular Formula: C22H26N2O4·HCl

ATC Code: C08DB01

Mechanism of Action:
Tiazac SR inhibits the influx of extracellular calcium ions through slow channels in cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. This results in:

Vasodilation of systemic arteries, reducing blood pressure

Reduced myocardial oxygen demand

Slowed atrioventricular conduction and decreased heart rate

Improved coronary perfusion

Unlike dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, diltiazem acts both on vascular smooth muscle and cardiac conduction tissue.

Indications / Uses:
Essential Hypertension

Chronic Stable Angina (Exertional Angina)

Vasospastic Angina (Prinzmetal's Angina)

Atrial Fibrillation and Atrial Flutter (off-label, rate control)

Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (off-label)

Dosage and Administration:
Hypertension:
Initial Dose: 120–240 mg once daily

Titration: May increase to 540 mg once daily depending on response

Maintenance Range: 180–420 mg once daily

Angina:
120–360 mg/day in divided or once-daily extended-release doses

Geriatric Dosing:
Start at lower doses (e.g., 120 mg/day) and titrate slowly

Administration Notes:
Take at the same time each day with or without food

Swallow capsules whole; do not chew or crush

Prescribing Information:
Blood Pressure Monitoring: Required during titration

Cardiac Monitoring: Recommended for arrhythmia patients

Taper Gradually: Avoid abrupt withdrawal in angina

Safety Information & Monitoring:
Monitor Heart Rate: Risk of bradycardia and AV block

Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Elevations reported

Use with Caution in: CHF, conduction defects, hepatic impairment

Common Side Effects:
Headache

Dizziness

Peripheral edema

Fatigue

Bradycardia

Constipation

Serious Side Effects:
Atrioventricular Block

Congestive Heart Failure

Severe Hypotension

Hepatic Injury (rare)

Hypersensitivity Reactions (rash, angioedema)

Warnings and Precautions:
Bradycardia or AV Block: Monitor closely in elderly or patients with cardiac conduction issues

Heart Failure: Use with caution in patients with left ventricular dysfunction

Hepatic Impairment: Dose adjustments may be needed

Withdrawal: Abrupt discontinuation may worsen angina or precipitate MI

Drug Interactions:
Tiazac SR is metabolized by CYP3A4 and may interact with several drugs:

Interacting Drug Effect Action
Beta-blockers (e.g., Metoprolol) ↑ Risk of bradycardia Use cautiously
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., Erythromycin, Ketoconazole) ↑ Diltiazem levels Monitor for toxicity
Digoxin ↑ Digoxin serum concentration Monitor digoxin levels
Statins (Simvastatin, Atorvastatin) ↑ Risk of myopathy Use lower statin doses
Carbamazepine Reduced diltiazem efficacy Monitor BP

Contraindications:
Sick sinus syndrome (except in patients with a pacemaker)

Second- or third-degree AV block (without pacemaker)

Hypotension (SBP < 90 mmHg)

Acute myocardial infarction with pulmonary congestion

Known hypersensitivity to diltiazem

Use in Special Populations:
Pregnancy Category C: Use only if benefits outweigh risks

Lactation: Diltiazem is excreted in breast milk – avoid or monitor infant

Geriatrics: Increased risk of bradycardia, hypotension

Storage Instructions:
Store below 25°C in a dry place

Protect from light and moisture

Keep out of reach of children

Do not use if the seal is broken or expired

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What is Tiazac SR used for?
Tiazac SR is prescribed to treat high blood pressure, chest pain due to angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders. It works by relaxing blood vessels and reducing heart rate.

Is Tiazac SR the same as diltiazem?
Yes. Tiazac SR is an extended-release brand of diltiazem hydrochloride, a calcium channel blocker used to manage cardiovascular conditions.

Can I take Tiazac SR at night?
Yes, Tiazac SR can be taken once daily, typically at the same time each day. Night dosing may help minimize side effects like dizziness.

Does Tiazac SR cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not common but may occur due to fluid retention (edema). Contact your doctor if swelling persists.

Can I stop taking Tiazac SR suddenly?
No. Abrupt discontinuation may lead to rebound hypertension or worsening angina. Always taper under medical supervision.

Is Tiazac SR safe during pregnancy?
Tiazac SR is classified as Pregnancy Category C. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus.