Your Pharmacy Is Out of Cardizem XR — Now What?

When your pharmacist says "we don't have it" and can't tell you when it's coming back, the stress is real. Cardizem XR (Diltiazem extended-release) is a daily medication — you can't just skip it and wait. High blood pressure doesn't take days off.

The good news? Even during supply disruptions, Cardizem XR and generic Diltiazem ER are usually available somewhere nearby. The trick is knowing where to look. Here are three proven strategies to find your medication fast.

Tip 1: Use Medfinder to Search Real-Time Pharmacy Stock

The fastest way to find Cardizem XR in stock is to use Medfinder. Instead of calling pharmacy after pharmacy, Medfinder shows you which pharmacies near your ZIP code have Diltiazem ER available right now.

Here's how it works:

1. Go to medfinder.com
2. Type in "Cardizem XR" or "Diltiazem ER"
3. Enter your location
4. See a list of pharmacies with current stock, sorted by distance

This saves you hours of phone calls and the frustration of driving to multiple pharmacies only to be turned away. You can also check specific pharmacies using our guide: How to Check If a Pharmacy Has Cardizem XR in Stock.

Tip 2: Try Independent and Specialty Pharmacies

When chain pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid are out of stock, independent pharmacies are often your best bet. Here's why:

• Different supply chains: Independent pharmacies often work with multiple wholesalers, giving them access to inventory that chain pharmacies can't get.
• Flexible ordering: A local pharmacist can often place a special order for you and have it within 1–2 business days.
• Personal attention: Independent pharmacists are more likely to go the extra mile to help you find your medication.

Don't know where to find an independent pharmacy? Search your area on Medfinder, which includes independent pharmacies in its results.

Compounding Pharmacies

In rare cases where no manufactured version is available, a compounding pharmacy may be able to prepare Diltiazem in a custom formulation. This requires a specific prescription from your doctor and may cost more, but it's an option when nothing else works.

Tip 3: Time Your Refills Strategically

Pharmacies receive new shipments on specific days, and demand patterns vary throughout the week. A few timing tips:

• Refill early in the week: Many pharmacies receive wholesale deliveries on Monday or Tuesday. Try to fill your prescription early in the week when shelves are freshly stocked.
• Go during off-peak hours: Early morning (right when the pharmacy opens) or mid-afternoon on weekdays tend to be the least busy times. Pharmacists have more time to help you problem-solve.
• Don't wait until you're out: Request refills when you have 7–10 days of medication left. This gives you time to find an alternative source if your usual pharmacy is out.
• Ask about auto-refill: Many pharmacies will automatically order your medication ahead of time if you're enrolled in their auto-refill program.

What If You Still Can't Find Cardizem XR?

If you've tried the steps above and still can't locate your medication, here are additional options:

Talk to Your Doctor About Alternatives

Your doctor may be able to switch you to a different Diltiazem extended-release formulation, such as Cartia XT, Tiazac, or Cardizem CD. These contain the same active ingredient but are manufactured by different companies, so availability may differ. For a complete list of options, see Alternatives to Cardizem XR.

Consider Mail-Order Pharmacy

Mail-order pharmacies often have larger inventories than local retail pharmacies. If your insurance plan offers a mail-order option, this can be a reliable way to get a 90-day supply delivered to your door. Services like Amazon Pharmacy, Cost Plus Drugs, and Honeybee Health may also carry generic Diltiazem ER at competitive prices.

Ask About Emergency Supplies

If you're completely out of medication and can't find it anywhere, your pharmacist may be able to provide a small emergency supply (usually 3–7 days) to bridge the gap. State laws vary on this, but it's worth asking — especially for a blood pressure medication where stopping suddenly could be dangerous.

Keep Track of Your Search

When you're making calls, keep a simple list:

• Pharmacy name and phone number
• Date you called
• Whether they had it in stock
• When they expect their next shipment

This prevents duplicate calls and helps your doctor or pharmacist assist you more effectively.

Final Thoughts

Finding Cardizem XR during a shortage takes effort, but it's doable. Start with Medfinder to check real-time availability, expand your search to independent pharmacies, and time your refills strategically. If your specific formulation remains unavailable, work with your doctor on a safe alternative.

For more information about why this medication has been hard to find, read Why Is Cardizem XR So Hard to Find?. And if cost is a concern, check out How to Save Money on Cardizem XR.