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Aldizem: uses, side effects and interactions with other drugs

Aldizem is a calcium channel blocker of the benzodiazepine group, produced by the Macedonian pharmaceutical group Alkaloid. Its international name is Diltiazem, and the drug is also known by various synonyms such as Angizem, Dilcardia, Dilzhina and others.

Aldizem is presented in the form of tablets containing 60 or 90 mg of the active substance - Diltiazem. The drug is used to treat angina pectoris, arterial hypertension, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. It can also be used to prevent coronary spasm during coronary angiography or coronary artery bypass surgery, as well as after kidney transplantation to prevent graft failure.

However, like any other medicine, Aldizem can cause side effects in patients. These may include headache, dizziness, weakness, feeling of fatigue, peripheral edema, impaired potency, dyspeptic symptoms, hyperplasia of the gum mucosa, increased transaminase activity and others. In rare cases, allergic reactions such as skin rash and itching, exudative erythema multiforme and others may occur.

It is also important to consider Aldizem's interactions with other medications. For example, Aldizem can increase plasma levels of carbamazepine, theophylline, cyclosporine A and digoxin, and also weaken the nephrotoxic effects of cyclosporine A. When Aldizem is used simultaneously with anesthetics, their inhibitory effect on contractility, conduction and automaticity of the heart may be enhanced. Antiarrhythmics and beta-blockers may contribute to the development of bradycardia, AV conduction disturbances, and symptoms of heart failure. Antihypertensive drugs may enhance the hypotensive effect of Aldizem.

Contraindications to the use of Aldizem include hypersensitivity to the active substance, cardiogenic shock, left ventricular systolic dysfunction, sinus bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, sinoatrial and AV block II-III degree, severe aortic stenosis, heart failure in the acute phase, as well as taking inhibitors MAO within the last 14 days.

Before starting to use Aldizem, you should consult your doctor, especially if the patient has other medical conditions or is taking other medications. The dosage of the drug should be individual and prescribed by a doctor depending on the patient’s condition.

In general, Aldizem is an effective drug for the treatment of various cardiovascular diseases, but its use should be carried out under the supervision of a physician and taking into account possible side effects and interactions with other drugs.