General Information
Coreg (Carvedilol) is indicated for the treatment of heart failure and high blood pressure. This may also be used after a heart attack to improve the chance of survival if your heart is not pumping well. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent kidney problems, strokes, and heart attacks.
How does Coreg (Carvedilol) work?
Coreg (Carvedilol) blocks receptors of the adrenergic nervous system, the system of nerves in which adrenalin is active. Nerves from the adrenergic system go in the heart. It releases an adrenergic chemical that attaches to receptors on the heart’s muscle. It also stimulates the muscle to beat more forcefully and rapidly. By blocking the receptors, this drug lessens the heart’s rate and force of contraction. Thereby it decreases the work of the heart.
Coreg (Carvedilol) also blocks adrenergic receptors on arteries. That it causes the arteries to relax and the blood pressure to fall. The drop in blood pressure further decreases the work of the heart since it is easier to pump blood against a lower pressure.
Why use Coreg (Carvedilol)?
Coreg (Carvedilol) has first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the year 1995. This medication belongs to the family of drugs known as alpha and beta blockers. Each film-coated tablet has 3.125mg, 6.25mg, and 25mg of carvedilol. This is often prescribed in combination with other medications.
How to use Coreg (Carvedilol)?
The dose will depend on your medical condition and response. This drug comes as a tablet to be taken by mouth. You may take it with or without food. Swallow it as a whole and do not break or chew it. Use it regularly for the best effect and benefit. Follow your doctor’s prescription very carefully.
What are the side-effects of Coreg (Carvedilol)?
- Light-headedness, dizziness, drowsiness
- Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting
- Tiredness, weakness, headache
- Cough, joint pain, dry eyes
- Numbness or tingling sensation, vision changes, decreased sex drive
- Difficulty in having orgasm or impotence
Call your doctor right away if you experience these:
- Slow or irregular heartbeats
- Feeling faint
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Shortness of breath
- Severe skin reaction
- Loss of bladder control
Warnings and Precautions
- Avoid driving or do anything that needs your full alertness when using this medication. This may make you feel drowsy or dizzy.
- Let your doctor know if you have any allergies, medical history or current treatments.
- This is not prescribed during pregnancy.
- If you are breastfeeding women, consult your doctor first.
