What is Carvedilol for ?

This medication is an alpha- and beta-blocker, prescribed for heart failure and high blood pressure. It relaxes blood vessels and slowing heart rate to improve blood flow and decreases blood pressure.

How does Carvedilol work ?

Carvedilol blocks chemicals that fire up the body.

How should Carvedilol be used ?

Oral- Hypertension- Adult: Initially, 12.5 mg once daily increased to 25 mg once daily after 2 days. Alternatively, initial dose of 6.25 mg bid increased to 12.5 mg bid after 1-2 wk, increased further if necessary to 50 mg once daily or in divided doses. Elderly: 12.5 mg once daily. Angina pectoris- Adult: Initially, 12.5 mg bid increased to 25 mg bid after 2 days. Heart failure- Adult: Initially, 3.125 mg bid, doubled to 6.25 mg bid after 2 wk if tolerated, then gradually increased to the max dose the patient can tolerate at intervals of not <2 wk. Max dose: >85 kg: 50 mg bid; <85 kg: 25 mg bid. Left ventricular dysfunction post myocardial infarction- Adult: Initially: 6.25 mg bid, if tolerated, after 3-10 days, increase to 12.5 mg bid and then to a target dose of 25 mg bid. It comes as a tablet and an extended-release (long-acting) capsule to take by mouth. The tablet is usually taken twice a day with food.

Common side effects of Carvedilol ?

Feeling dizzy. Rise slowly over a few minutes when sitting or lying down. Be careful climbing. Feeling tired or weak. Loose stools (diarrhea). Dry eyes. Using artificial tears may help. Change in sex ability. This most often goes back to normal. Allergic side effects may rarely happen.

What do I do if I miss a dose ?

Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. - If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. - Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. - Do not change the dose or stop this drug. - Talk with the doctor.

What precautions should I take when taking Carvedilol ?

Alert your doctor if you suffer from heart, liver or lung disease including asthma.

When do I need to seek medical help ?

If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue or gray skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Very bad dizziness or passing out. Change in how contact lenses feel in the eyes. Trouble breathing. A big weight gain. Very loose stools diarrhea). Feeling very tired or weak. Any rash. Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.

Can I take Carvedilol with other medicines ?

Alert your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here: - other medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease, especially digoxin, clonidine, prazosin. - migraine medicines such as ergotamine. - rifampicin (a TB medicine). - cimetidine (a gastric medicine). Do not take antacids together with Carvedilol. Antacids may affect the effectiveness of Carvedilol. If you must take antacids, take it at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after you take Carvedilol. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Are there any food restrictions ?

Avoid Alcohol.

How do I store Carvedilol ?

Store below 30°C.keep away from children.

Pregnancy Category ?

Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Therapeutic Classification ?

Beta Blockers.