What is Cartia XT used for?
Cartia XT is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertension occurs when the force of blood against artery walls is high and causes the heart to have to work harder. Using this medication can help reduce the risk of further health complications, such as heart attack, stroke, kidney problems, and more. Additionally, Cartia XT is used to help prevent angina (chest pain). Angina occurs when the heart muscles do not get a sufficient amount of blood, usually due to a narrowed or blocked artery. Using this medication can help decrease the number of episodes of angina as well as the severity of it.
How long does it take Diltiazem to work?
Diltiazem, the active ingredient inside Cartia XL, will begin to work at various times for each patient taking the medication. Certain factors may influence the exact length of time. However, it generally takes about 2-4 weeks for the medication to reach its full affect and provide clinical improvement. Use this medication exactly the way your doctor has prescribed it to you for the best results.
What are the side effects of Cartia XT?
Some common side effects of Cartia XT include dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, nausea, flushing, constipation, and headache. You may experience one of these side effects or a combination of them; they should not alarm you. However, if they become worse or do not subside over time, you should consult with your doctor.
What is the difference between Cartia XT and Diltiazem?
Both medications, Cartia XT and Diltiazem are the same drug; they are both Diltiazem. Cartia XT was the trade name given to Diltiazem when it was first developed and approved for marketing, so Diltiazem is known as Cartia XT. Some years after marketing a brand-name product, generic alternatives may be approved and put on the market. Generic alternatives are a replica of the brand-name drug; they contain the same active ingredient, the same strengths, indications, dosage form, route of administration, safety, quality, and performance characteristics. So while Cartia XT and Diltiazem are the same drug, they can also be considered as the brand and the generic, in which case they are different in some ways. Generic alternatives may differ in capsule shape, color, or flavoring, inactive ingredients, manufacturers, and the reason most patients prefer the generics – price. Generic medications are commonly much cheaper than the brand-name medication. This is because generic manufacturers don’t have to go through the process of researching and developing a new chemical entity.
What does Cartia XT look like?
Cartia XT is commonly an orange, orange and brown, orange and yellow, or orange and white capsule. The generic alternative will also be a capsule however, the colors may be different. Keep in mind, the appearance of capsules – brand or generic – may vary when you purchase them internationally.