I changed cardiologist recently and told him I wanted off Diltriazem (for one incidence rapid heart rate diagnosed as AFIB. Taken to the ER). I am experiencing side effects that are getting worse. At my last visit he said he did not know how to get me off it, but that it is a drug that you can just stop taking. I don t believe it, it can cause my BP to rise. I already have high blood pressure, 130 s, 140 s, 150 s. This drug has actually raised my BP probably because of the anxiety taking it causes. I have undergone tests including an echo card. and there is nothing wrong with me. I am a healthy 85-year-old and don t look my age. The ER doctor told me he wanted my blood. How do I get off this drug? I will start taking it every other day for starters, but I want completely off it.