Diltiazem 24hr ER (Cd)

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Nov 01, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Diltiazem


Is diltiazem an ACE inhibitor or beta blocker?

Diltiazem is neither an ACE inhibitor nor a beta blocker. It is a calcium channel blocker.



How long does it take for diltiazem to work?

It can take up to 2 weeks for diltiazem to take effect fully. If you don’t notice an improvement in your blood pressure readings at home after taking diltiazem for at least 2 weeks, tell your doctor. They may increase your dose, add another antihypertensive medicine to your regimen, or switch you to another medicine.



Do you have to take diltiazem forever?

Diltiazem helps to control high blood pressure but does not cure the condition. You need to continue taking diltiazem to lower your blood pressure. As long as your blood pressure is controlled on diltiazem, your healthcare provider might recommend taking it for life.



What is the difference between Cardizem and Cardizem CD?

Cardizem and Cardizem CD contain the same active ingredient. However, Cardizem (immediate-release tablets) are used to control angina and are taken 3-4 times a day. Cardizem CD (extended-release capsules) are used to control angina and treat high blood pressure and are taken once daily.



Is diltiazem safe during pregnancy?

Diltiazem is not usually recommended during pregnancy.  Your healthcare provider may switch you over to another medication for high blood pressure if you become pregnant. However, you can take diltiazem if you’re pregnant if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.



What is the price of diltiazem without insurance?

Without insurance, diltiazem can be as high as $125.03, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $20.46 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of diltiazem with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on diltiazem—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for diltiazem. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.