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Cardizem vs. Lopressor

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Diltiazem (Cardizem) and metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) are both used to treat chest pain, but they belong to different medication classes. Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) that works by slowing your heart rate and relaxing your blood vessels, while metoprolol tartrate is a beta blocker that slows down the heart to reduce pressure on blood vessels. Diltiazem is taken four times a day, whereas metoprolol tartrate is typically taken twice daily. Diltiazem is mainly used for chest pain, while metoprolol tartrate also treats high blood pressure and lowers the risk of death after a heart attack. Common side effects of diltiazem include swelling in the legs and dizziness, while metoprolol tartrate can cause tiredness and dizziness. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options.

Diltiazem

(Cardizem)

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Metoprolol tartrate

(Lopressor)

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Summary for Cardizem

Prescription only

Diltiazem (Cardizem) works well to treat chest pain caused by poor blood flow to the heart. Unlike its extended-release counterpart that's taken once a day, diltiazem (Cardizem) is taken four times a day. Common side effects of diltiazem (Cardizem) include swelling in the legs, dizziness, and tiredness.

Indications for Cardizem

  • New chest pain
  • Long-term chest pain

Pros and Cons for Cardizem

Pros

Cons

  • Need to take four times a day
  • Don't take with alcohol
  • Not for people with certain types of heart failure

Common Side Effects for Cardizem

  • Swelling in the legs and feet (2%)
  • Headache (2%)
  • Nausea (2%)
  • Dizziness (2%)
  • Weakness (1%)

Warnings for Cardizem

  • Heart rhythm problems
  • Risk of low blood pressure
  • Liver problems

Summary for Lopressor

Prescription only

Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) is a beta blocker used to treat chest pain and high blood pressure in adults. It can also lower the risk of death after a heart attack. You take it by mouth, typically once or twice a day, but your dose depends on your condition. Side effects include dizziness, shortness of breath, and it can make you tired.

Indications for Lopressor

Pros and Cons for Lopressor

Pros

  • Fast-acting — works quickly after you take it
  • First choice treatment after a heart attack
  • Available in different strengths, so your dose can be adjusted easily
  • Possible option for those who are breastfeeding

Cons

Common Side Effects for Lopressor

  • Tiredness (10%)
  • Dizziness (10%)
  • Diarrhea (5%)
  • Rash (5%)
  • Depression (5%)

Warnings for Lopressor

  • Risks of stopping treatment suddenly
  • Worsening heart failure
  • Risk of difficulty breathing
  • Major surgery
  • Hiding symptoms of low blood sugar
  • Hiding symptoms of overactive thyroid
  • Severe allergic reactions

Prices with our coupons for Cardizem vs. Lopressor

Price Card Drug Icon
Diltiazem90 tablets / 30mg
$12.97$12.97
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Metoprolol60 tablets / 25mg
$8.79$16.07
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