A pharmacy technician receives a faxed prescription for diltiazem (Cardizem). This medication is prescribed for patients who have which of the following conditions?

Diltiazem, commonly known as Cardizem, is primarily prescribed for hypertension, among other conditions. It belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. These drugs work by relaxing the blood vessels, which reduces the force of the heart's contractions and allows for easier blood flow. Consequently, this leads to a decrease in blood pressure.

In addition to treating hypertension, diltiazem is also effective in managing certain types of angina (chest pain) and can be used to control heart rate in conditions like atrial fibrillation. However, it is not indicated for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Alzheimer's disease, or depression. Each of those conditions is managed with different classes of medications and therapies that specifically target the underlying mechanisms of those diseases, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate medication based on the condition being treated.