Carvedilol

Generic Name: carvedilol

alpha-Adrenergic Blocker [EPC]Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Carvedilol

Carvedilol is a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocking agent with alpha-1 blocking activity. Indicated for treatment of mild-to-severe chronic heart failure, left ventricular dysfunction following myocardial infarction, and essential hypertension management.

Overview

Carvedilol is a nonselective beta-adrenergic blocking agent with alpha-1 blocking activity. Indicated for treatment of mild-to-severe chronic heart failure, left ventricular dysfunction following myocardial infarction, and essential hypertension management.

Uses

Indicated for treatment of mild-to-severe chronic heart failure, left ventricular dysfunction post-myocardial infarction, and essential hypertension management.

Dosage

Take with food. Heart failure: start 3.125 mg twice daily for 2 weeks, titrate to max 50 mg twice daily. Post-MI: start 6.25 mg twice daily, target 25 mg twice daily. Hypertension: start 6.25 mg twice daily, max 50 mg daily.

Side Effects

Common: dizziness (24-32%), fatigue (22-24%), bradycardia (9-10%), hypotension (9-14%), syncope (3-8%). Rare: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, aplastic anemia, angioedema.

Interactions

CYP2D6 inhibitors increase R(+) enantiomer levels. Additive hypotensive effects with catecholamine-depleting agents. Digoxin concentrations increased 15%. Amiodarone increases S(-) enantiomer 2-fold.

Warnings

Risk of abrupt discontinuation causing angina exacerbation and MI. Monitor for bradycardia, hypotension, heart failure worsening, bronchospasm, blood sugar changes, renal function deterioration. Contraindicated in bronchial asthma, second/third-degree AV block, sick sinus syndrome, severe bradycardia, decompensated heart failure, severe hepatic impairment.

Pregnancy

Insufficient data on human pregnancy. Animal studies show embryo-fetal toxicity at high doses. Present in lactating rat milk; unknown if in human breast milk.

Storage

Store at 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Dispense in tight, light-resistant container.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carvedilol used for?

Indicated for treatment of mild-to-severe chronic heart failure, left ventricular dysfunction post-myocardial infarction, and essential hypertension management.

What are the side effects of Carvedilol?

Common: dizziness (24-32%), fatigue (22-24%), bradycardia (9-10%), hypotension (9-14%), syncope (3-8%). Rare: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, aplastic anemia, angioedema.

Can I take Carvedilol during pregnancy?

Insufficient data on human pregnancy. Animal studies show embryo-fetal toxicity at high doses. Present in lactating rat milk; unknown if in human breast milk.

What are the important warnings for Carvedilol?

Risk of abrupt discontinuation causing angina exacerbation and MI. Monitor for bradycardia, hypotension, heart failure worsening, bronchospasm, blood sugar changes, renal function deterioration. Contraindicated in bronchial asthma, second/third-degree AV block, sick sinus syndrome, severe bradycardia, decompensated heart failure, severe hepatic impairment.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.