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Question
I am a diabetic, I have been taking 40mg of Lisinopril for 2 and a half years for mildly high blood pressure, the doctor just added Diltiazem Hydrochloride Extended-release capsule at 240mg a day. How safe is this newest one, what does it do? Sometimes I think my head feels funny with it and am considering just to stop taking it, any info on this will be much apppreciated, thank you

Answer
Hi Sharon,
Diltiazem is a common drug used to lower blood pressure. It acts by relaxing the muscles that line the blood vessels. This results in dilation of the blood vessels and a lowering of blood pressure. It is a very safe medication as far as long term use is concerned. As with other drugs it is not free of side effects. If you notice an unusual effect that you can not otherwise explain contact your doctor or pharmacist to evaluate if it is drug related. It can cause dizziness.
Thank you for using Allexperts
Sincerely,
Eric Brandt, B.Sc. Pharm

Alternative Medicine

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Eric Brandt

Expertise

I will answer questions regarding prescripion and non prescription drugs as well as commonly used mdicinal herbs. I will also answer questions on various medical conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, thyroid problems, diabets, menopause, parkinson`s disease, multiple sclerosis, depression etc.

Experience

I am a practicing hospital pharmacist with 10 years experience in hospital and 10 years retail pharmacy experience prior to that.
I have my own drug information web site at http://www.druginformation.bc.ca I also publish an online newsletter. Subscription is free. To learn more go to http://www.topica.com/lists/thecaplet

Publications
Contributed to an article in CNS Drugs. Currently publishing a free monthly nwletter. To learn more go to http://www.topica.com/lists/thecaplet

Education/Credentials
B.Sc. Pharm

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