Diltiazem
Cartia is a brand-name calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), and certain heart rhythm disorders. It works by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the heart's workload, allowing blood to flow more easily. This medication is typically prescribed when lifestyle changes or other medications alone are insufficient.
Cartia is a calcium channel blocker used to manage high blood pressure, angina, and heart rhythm conditions by relaxing blood vessels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 491095
- Generic
- Cartia
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Cartia is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), chronic stable angina (chest pain), and certain types of arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). It may be prescribed alone or in combination with other heart medications.
As a calcium channel blocker, Cartia inhibits calcium from entering smooth muscle cells in blood vessel walls and the heart. This causes blood vessels to relax and widen (vasodilation), reduces the force of heart contractions, and slows the heart rate, improving overall cardiac function.
Do not stop taking this medication suddenly, as this may worsen your condition. Avoid grapefruit juice while using Cartia, as it may increase drug levels. Inform your doctor of all medications, as Cartia can interact with beta-blockers, digoxin, and other drugs. Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, and swelling in the ankles.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy