Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Carvedilol is employed either on its own or in conjunction with other medications for the treatment of heart failure, as well as high blood pressure. It is additionally utilized to enhance survival rates following a heart attack. Belonging to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers, carvedilol functions by inducing the relaxation of blood vessels, thereby slowing the heart rate. This dual action aims to improve blood flow, ultimately contributing to a reduction in blood pressure.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication orally with food, following your doctor’s guidance, usually once daily in the morning.
Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush or chew it.
If swallowing the capsule whole is challenging, you have the option to open it and sprinkle the beads over cool, smooth applesauce. Refrain from chewing the mixture, as this could lead to a rapid release of the drug, potentially increasing side effects. Consume the entire mixture promptly and avoid preparing it in advance for later use.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may advise starting at a low dose and gradually increasing it to minimize the risk of side effects. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions meticulously.
To derive the maximum benefit, take this medication regularly at the same time each day.
For the management of high blood pressure, it may take 1 to 2 weeks before experiencing the full benefits of the drug.
Continue taking the medication even if you feel well, as many individuals with high blood pressure may not exhibit symptoms.
Inform your doctor if there is no improvement in your condition or if it worsens. This includes scenarios such as sustained or increased blood pressure readings or worsening symptoms of heart failure, such as heightened shortness of breath.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- tiredness
- weakness
- lightheadedness
- dizziness
- headache
- diarrhea
- nausea
- vomiting
- vision changes
- joint pain
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- stuffy or runny nose
- cough
- dry eyes
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- fainting
- shortness of breath
- weight gain
- swelling of the arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- chest pain
- slow or irregular heartbeat
- rash
- hives
- itching
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- difficulty breathing and swallowing
Caution
- Before taking carvedilol, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other complications.
- Prior to using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have certain types of heartbeat/heart rhythm problems, breathing problems, severe heart failure requiring hospitalization, liver disease, kidney disease, blood circulation problems, serious allergic reactions requiring treatment with epinephrine, overactive thyroid disease (hyperthyroidism), a certain type of tumor (pheochromocytoma), other heart problems (such as Prinzmetal’s variant angina), a certain muscle disease (myasthenia gravis), or certain eye problems (cataracts, glaucoma).
- This drug may induce dizziness, drowsiness, or fainting, especially within 1 hour after taking your dose or when your doctor adjusts your dose. Avoid driving or engaging in hazardous tasks during these periods. Alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate dizziness or drowsiness.
- People wearing contact lenses may experience dry eyes while using this medication.
- Carvedilol may prevent the usual fast/pounding heartbeat associated with low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). The risk is higher if you have diabetes or are experiencing vomiting, fasting, or irregular eating patterns. Other symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness and sweating, are not affected by this drug.
- If you have diabetes, carvedilol may complicate blood sugar control. Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly and inform your doctor if you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst/urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
- Children using this drug, especially those vomiting or not eating regularly, may be at greater risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Ensure regular meals for children, and if they cannot eat regularly or exhibit symptoms of low blood sugar, notify the doctor promptly.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly dizziness and lightheadedness.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as carvedilol should not be used during pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby. If pregnancy occurs, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
- The presence of carvedilol in breast milk is uncertain, but it is unlikely to pass in significant amounts. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Coreg CR is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Coreg CR extended-release capsule:
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
- 80 mg
- carvedilol phosphate controlled-release tablet:
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
- 40 mg
FAQ
Is Coreg a blood thinner?
No, Coreg isn’t a blood thinner and it shouldn’t affect the way your blood clots.
Does Coreg lower heart rate?
Yes, Coreg can lower your heart rate. People taking 50 mg of Coreg every day for blood pressure during clinical studies experienced a drop in their heart rate by about 8 beats per minute.
