Side Effects of Cartia XT

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects of Cartia XT may include allergic reactions such as itching, swelling in the face or hands, and trouble breathing.​ Other serious side effects may consist of a rapid or irregular heartbeat, rapid weight gain, and blistering skin rash.​ It is important to consult a healthcare professional if any of these severe side effects occur during the use of Cartia XT.​

Common Side Effects

Common side effects of Cartia XT may include headaches, dizziness, and swelling.​ Other potential common side effects are constipation, a slow heart rate, and low blood pressure.​ It is important to note that these side effects may diminish as the body adjusts to the medication.​ Patients should consult their healthcare provider if these common side effects persist or worsen over time.

Cartia XT Dosage and Administration

The dosage and administration of Cartia XT depend on the condition being treated. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for optimal therapeutic effects. It is recommended to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and administration schedule.​ Typically, the starting dose for hypertension ranges from 180 to 240 mg once daily, while for angina, it ranges from 120 to 180 mg once daily.​ Dosage adjustments should be made based on individual patient needs, and regular monitoring is essential during treatment to ensure efficacy and safety.​

Allergic Reactions

Common allergic reactions associated with Cartia XT may include itching or hives, swelling in the face or hands, swelling or tingling in the mouth or throat, chest tightness, and trouble breathing.​ Patients may also experience a fast, slow, uneven, or pounding heartbeat, rapid weight gain, and swelling in the hands, ankles, or feet.​ In some cases, allergic reactions may manifest as blistering, peeling, or red skin rash.​ If any of these symptoms occur, seeking immediate medical attention is advised.​

Interactions with Other Medications

Cartia XT may interact with several medications such as amiodarone, buspirone, carbamazepine, cimetidine, cyclosporine, digoxin, lovastatin, rifampin, quinidine, sedatives, antibiotics, antifungal medications, beta-blockers, or HIV/AIDS medicines. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are using to prevent any potential interactions that could impact the safety and efficacy of treatment with Cartia XT.​

Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Cartia XT should only be used during pregnancy when prescribed by a healthcare provider.​ Due to the potential risks, caution should be exercised when considering the use of diltiazem, the active ingredient in Cartia XT, during pregnancy. This medication can pass into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant.​ It is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before breastfeeding while using Cartia XT to weigh the potential benefits and risks involved.​

Chemical Composition of Diltiazem Hydrochloride

The chemical composition of diltiazem hydrochloride, the active ingredient in Cartia XT, is 1,5-benzothiazepin-4(5H)one, 3-(acetyloxy)-5-2-(dimethylamino)ethyl-2, 3-dihydro-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-monohydrochloride,-cis-.​ This compound is a white to off-white crystalline powder with a bitter taste.​ It has a molecular weight of 450.​98 and is soluble in water, methanol, and chloroform.​ Diltiazem hydrochloride is formulated in extended-release capsules containing 120 mg, 180 mg, 240 mg, or 300 mg of the active ingredient.​ Inactive ingredients present in the capsule include acetyltributyl citrate, ammoniomethacrylate copolymer-NF, D C Red 28, D C Yellow 10, and others as listed in the product formulation.​

Recommended Storage Conditions

Cartia XT (diltiazem hydrochloride) extended-release capsules USP should be stored at temperatures between 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F).​ It is advisable to keep the medication in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the US Pharmacopeia (USP) to protect it from exposure to light and moisture.​ Patients should store the medication as per the instructions provided and consult their healthcare provider or pharmacist in case of any doubts or concerns regarding the proper storage of Cartia XT.​

Adverse Reactions and Studies

Diltiazem hydrochloride (the active ingredient in Cartia XT) may cause some unwanted effects, even though not all may occur.​ Common side effects reported include headaches, dizziness, constipation, slow heart rate, and low blood pressure. Serious side effects such as allergic reactions, rapid heartbeat, and skin issues like blistering have also been noted.​ Studies have shown that the incidence of side effects may increase with dose increment, with certain adverse reactions like dizziness and heart rhythm abnormalities relating strongly to dose.​ It is crucial to monitor and report any adverse reactions experienced during Cartia XT treatment to healthcare providers for appropriate management.​

Common Adverse Reactions

In clinical trials of Cartia XT (diltiazem hydrochloride) extended-release capsules, common adverse reactions observed include edema, headache, dizziness, asthenia, first-degree AV block, bradycardia, flushing, nausea, and rash; While these are the frequently reported side effects, patients may also experience cardiovascular issues like angina, arrhythmia, AV block, congestive heart failure, and ECG abnormalities.​ Additionally, some may encounter neurological symptoms such as abnormal sensations.​ It is important to monitor and report any adverse reactions to healthcare providers for proper assessment and management.​

Infrequent Adverse Reactions

In clinical trials of diltiazem hydrochloride extended-release capsules, some infrequent adverse reactions have been reported.​ These include cardiovascular issues like arrhythmia, second- or third-degree AV block, bundle branch block, congestive heart failure, abnormal ECG findings, hypotension, palpitations, syncope, tachycardia, and ventricular extrasystoles.​ Nervous system-related infrequent adverse reactions may encompass abnormal sensations. While these reactions occur less frequently, it is crucial to monitor and report any such symptoms to healthcare providers for proper evaluation and management.​