Carvedilol: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients

Summary or Key Points

Carvedilol is a medication primarily prescribed to treat conditions such as high blood pressure, heart failure, and left ventricular dysfunction following a heart attack. This versatile medication has several dosage forms and strengths and is part of the beta-blocker pharmacologic category. While generally well-tolerated, Carvedilol can have some side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider for proper dosage instructions and potential side effects.

Names of Medication

The brand name for Carvedilol in the United States is Coreg (Carvedilol).

A ‘generic name’ refers to the official medical name for the active ingredient in the medication. This name is universal and used globally by healthcare professionals, irrespective of the brand. The generic name is listed in parentheses next to the brand name.

Pharmacologic Category

Carvedilol falls under the pharmacologic category of Beta-Blockers, Nonselective. Other medications in this category include Propranolol (Inderal), Nadolol (Corgard), and Sotalol (Betapace).

Dosing

Remember: The following dosing information is a general guide. Your healthcare provider may adjust this depending on your individual needs. Always consult with your healthcare provider before adjusting your medication dose. You can also reach out to our telemedicine providers for consultation right away.

• Hypertension: Typically, the starting dose is 6.25mg twice a day. This dose can be increased to 50mg per day, taken in divided doses over 7 to 14 days.
• Heart Failure: The starting dose is usually 3.125mg twice a day for two weeks. Depending on tolerability, the dose may be increased gradually to a maximum of 25mg twice a day.
• Left Ventricular Dysfunction following Myocardial Infarction: The treatment usually starts with 6.25mg twice a day. Your doctor may increase this dose over a period of time to a maximum of 25mg twice daily.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Carvedilol is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Tablets: 3.125mg, 6.25mg, 12.5mg, 25mg
• Extended-release capsules: 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, 80mg

Administration Instructions

Carvedilol should be taken with food to slow down its absorption and reduce the chances of side effects. Swallow the tablets whole, without chewing or crushing them. If you’re taking extended-release capsules, it’s important not to chew or crush them, as this can release all the medication at once and increase the risk of side effects.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects

Like any medication, Carvedilol can cause side effects. Always consult your healthcare provider or reach out to our telemedicine providers immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people): Dizziness, fatigue, low blood pressure, slower heart rate, changes in blood tests related to liver function.
• Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people): Weight gain, depression, fainting, problems with vision, shortness of breath.
• Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people): Swelling of hands and feet, changes in blood sugar levels (relevant for people with diabetes).

• Very Rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people): Allergic reactions like rash, hives, or itching, sudden weight gain, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face, throat, tongue, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.

Always consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers right away if you’re concerned about these or any other unexpected side effects.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. Other side effects may occur. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Conclusion

Understanding your medication is a critical part of managing your health. Carvedilol is a valuable medication used in treating hypertension, heart failure, and left ventricular dysfunction following a heart attack. However, it should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Any questions or concerns about this medication should be addressed to your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers immediately. Patient safety is our primary concern, and we are here to assist you 24/7 with any of your medication-related needs.

Contraindications

A contraindication is a condition or factor that serves as a reason to withhold a certain medical treatment due to the harm that it would cause the patient. Carvedilol is generally safe, but it’s contraindicated for certain situations:

• Asthma: Carvedilol can cause airways to constrict, which can be dangerous for people with asthma.
• Second or third-degree heart block: This medication can slow the heart rate, which can be harmful for those with existing heart conduction issues.
• Severe liver disease: Carvedilol is metabolized in the liver, so it can be harmful for those with severe liver problems.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Certain medications may interact with Carvedilol, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing side effects. Some of these include:

• Clonidine (Catapres)
• Digoxin (Lanoxin)
• Verapamil (Calan, Verelan, Isoptin, Covera-HS)

Carvedilol in Pregnancy

Carvedilol should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. Always consult with your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers to discuss potential risks and benefits.

Carvedilol while Breastfeeding

Carvedilol passes into breast milk and may potentially affect a nursing infant. Nursing mothers should consult their healthcare provider or reach out to our telemedicine providers to discuss potential risks and benefits before taking Carvedilol.

Estimated Cost of Medication

The estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Carvedilol (25mg, twice daily) is around $14, using a GoodRx coupon. Prices may vary based on location and pharmacy.

Possible Alternatives

It’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers before making any changes to your treatment plan. Some possible alternatives or lifestyle changes include:

• Hypertension: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting sodium intake, and taking other medications such as ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers.
• Heart Failure: Regular physical activity, limiting fluid and sodium intake, and other medications such as ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, or diuretics.
• Left Ventricular Dysfunction following Myocardial Infarction: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and other medications such as ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers.

Recent Updates on Carvedilol Research

Research into Carvedilol is ongoing to understand its potential benefits better. Recent studies have explored its potential role in managing conditions like Parkinson’s disease and certain forms of cancer. However, these studies are still preliminary and further research is required. Always consult your healthcare provider or one of our telemedicine providers for the most current information.

Brief Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.
Brief Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.