What is the brand name for Diltiazem?
The brand name for Diltiazem is Cardizem.
PTCE Top 200 · #106
Diltiazem
Cardizem
Diltiazem is the generic name for the brand-name drug Cardizem. It is a calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine) used to treat afib, hypertension, angina. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Diltiazem ranks #106 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Diltiazem |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Cardizem |
| Drug class | Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | afib, hypertension, angina |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Diltiazem used for?
Non‑dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used for hypertension and angina; also used for rate control in certain supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (depending on formulation).
What drug class is Diltiazem?
Diltiazem is a Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Diltiazem
- arrow_rightPeripheral edema
- arrow_rightBradycardia
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightFlushing
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightFatigue
Major interactions
- arrow_rightBeta‑blockers or digoxin: additive bradycardia/AV block (monitor HR/ECG)
- arrow_rightCYP3A4 substrates (e.g., certain statins like simvastatin) may have increased levels → myopathy risk; dose limits may apply
- arrow_rightStrong CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers can alter diltiazem levels
- arrow_rightGrapefruit juice may increase levels of some CCBs—follow product guidance
Is Diltiazem a controlled substance?
No. Diltiazem is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Diltiazem (PTCE mnemonic)
CARD-izem guards the CARDiac AV node — DILT-iazem is non-DHP CCB (heart-selective). Slows AV node (afib rate control); bradycardia, constipation, edema; NO with β-blocker (heart block).
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PTCE exam tip
Diltiazem is a NON-dihydropyridine CCB — it slows the heart (afib rate control), unlike the -dipine CCBs that mainly lower pressure. Cardizem CD vs SR release forms trip up order entry.
Diltiazem FAQ
What is Diltiazem used for?
Diltiazem is used to treat afib, hypertension, angina. Non‑dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used for hypertension and angina; also used for rate control in certain supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (depending on formulation).
What drug class is Diltiazem?
Diltiazem is a Calcium channel blocker (non-dihydropyridine) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Diltiazem a controlled substance?
No. Diltiazem is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Diltiazem the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).