How does carvedilol work?
Carvedilol blocks beta and alpha receptors in the heart and blood vessels, reducing heart rate and relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure and improve heart function.
What is carvedilol used to treat?
Carvedilol is commonly prescribed for:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart failure (to improve heart function and reduce symptoms)
- Angina (chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart)
- Reducing the risk of further heart problems after a heart attack
Who can take carvedilol?
Carvedilol is suitable for most adults with heart conditions, as prescribed by a doctor.
Who might not be able to take carvedilol?
Carvedilol may not be suitable if you:
- Have severe asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Have very low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Have severe liver disease
- Have a slow heart rate (bradycardia) or heart block
Can I take carvedilol if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Carvedilol isn’t usually recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as it may affect the baby. Speak to your doctor about safer alternatives.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed one—do not take two doses at once.
How effective is carvedilol?
Carvedilol is highly effective at lowering blood pressure, improving heart function, and managing heart-related conditions when taken as prescribed.
What should I do if I take too much?
Taking too much carvedilol can cause dangerously low blood pressure, slow heart rate, dizziness, or fainting. If you think you’ve taken too much, seek emergency medical help immediately.
What dose of carvedilol is usually taken?
- For high blood pressure: 12.5mg to 50mg once daily
- For heart failure: 3.125mg to 25mg twice daily
- For angina: 12.5mg to 50mg once or twice daily
Your doctor will determine the correct dose based on your condition.
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What are the side effects of carvedilol?
Common side effects include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Slow heart rate
- Cold hands and feet
- Nausea
Serious side effects, such as severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat, require urgent medical attention.
How should I take carvedilol?
Carvedilol is taken as tablets, usually once or twice daily, with food to reduce the risk of side effects.
When should carvedilol be taken?
Carvedilol should be taken at the same time each day, preferably with a meal.
What are the brand names for carvedilol?
Carvedilol is available as a generic medicine, but some branded versions include:
- Eucardic
- Coreg (outside the UK)
Final thoughts
Carvedilol is an effective medication for high blood pressure, heart failure, and angina, but it should be taken exactly as prescribed. Regular monitoring may be needed to check blood pressure and heart function. If side effects occur, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
