Generic Name: Carvedilol
Brand Names: Coreg, Coreg CR
Carvedilol is a beta-blocker used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It works by blocking certain natural substances in the body, such as epinephrine, from affecting the heart and blood vessels.
Drug Class
Non-Selective Beta-Blocker with Alpha-1 Adrenergic Blockade
Pregnancy
Category C — Animal studies have shown adverse fetal effects at maternally toxic doses. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Beta-blockers used in late pregnancy may cause fetal bradycardia, hypoglycemia, and intrauterine growth restriction. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk.
Available Forms
Immediate-release oral tablet (3.125 mg, 6.25 mg, 12.5 mg, 25 mg), Extended-release oral capsule (10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg)
is prescribed to treat:
• High blood pressure (hypertension) • Chronic heart failure • Left ventricular dysfunction after heart attack • Cardiomyopathy
It helps the heart pump more efficiently, lowers blood pressure, and reduces strain on the cardiovascular system.
These are general dosage guidelines. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose for your specific situation.
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose |
|---|---|---|
| Heart failure (NYHA Class II–IV) | 3.125 mg twice daily for 2 weeks | Double dose every 2 weeks as tolerated; target 25 mg twice daily (50 mg twice daily if > 85 kg) |
| Left ventricular dysfunction post-MI | 6.25 mg twice daily | Increase to 25 mg twice daily as tolerated |
| Hypertension (immediate-release) | 6.25 mg twice daily | Titrate at 7–14 day intervals; max 50 mg/day in divided doses |
| Hypertension (extended-release) | 20 mg once daily | Titrate at 7–14 day intervals; max 80 mg once daily |
Common side effects may include:
• Dizziness or lightheadedness • Fatigue or tiredness • Low blood pressure • Slow heart rate (bradycardia) • Diarrhea • Weight gain • Shortness of breath
Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):
• Severe dizziness or fainting • New or worsening heart failure symptoms • Very slow heartbeat • Severe allergic reactions • Difficulty breathing or wheezing • Swelling of legs, ankles, or feet • Unusual weight gain • Chest pain
Carvedilol blocks beta-1, beta-2, and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors and is metabolized primarily by CYP2D6 and CYP2C9.
Carvedilol is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called beta-blockers. Unlike traditional beta-blockers, carvedilol also has alpha-blocking properties, making it a non-selective beta-blocker with vasodilating effects. It is widely used to treat hypertension and heart failure.
Carvedilol has a unique dual mechanism of action:
Beta-Blocking Effects:
Alpha-Blocking Effects:
Additional Effects:
Carvedilol is prescribed for:
Carvedilol should be taken exactly as prescribed:
Avoid carvedilol if you have:
Inform your doctor about all medications, especially:
Diabetic Patients:
Thyroid Disease:
Peripheral Vascular Disease:
Carvedilol requires gradual dose increases:
For Hypertension:
For Heart Failure:
Your doctor will monitor:
To optimize treatment with carvedilol:
⚠️ NEVER stop carvedilol suddenly without medical supervision. Abrupt discontinuation can cause:
If discontinuation is necessary, your doctor will gradually taper the dose over 1-2 weeks.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Clinical studies have demonstrated that carvedilol:
Store carvedilol at room temperature (77°F/25°C) with brief excursions permitted to 59-86°F (15-30°C). Protect from moisture. Keep in original container away from light. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or medication.
Consider discussing these topics at your next appointment:
This medication is commonly used to treat or manage the following conditions:
Asthma, a chronic lung disease, causes airway inflammation and narrowing, resulting in wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, triggered by allergens, irritants, infections, or stress.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity, stemming from complex interactions between genetics, brain differences, and environmental factors, not poor parenting.
Cardiomyopathy encompasses diseases weakening the heart muscle, impairing its ability to pump blood efficiently, potentially leading to heart failure, arrhythmias, and other complications.
COPD, a progressive lung disease causing irreversible airflow limitation, encompassing emphysema and chronic bronchitis, is primarily driven by irritant exposure like smoking, leading to shortness of breath and chronic cough.
Hyperthyroidism, characterized by excessive thyroid hormone production, accelerates metabolism and can result from Graves' disease, toxic goiter, thyroiditis, or excessive iodine intake.
Lupus anticoagulant is an antibody causing paradoxical prolonged clotting tests yet increasing thrombosis risk, linked to antiphospholipid syndrome and autoimmune diseases, despite not always requiring lupus diagnosis.
Osteoarthritis, a common degenerative joint disease, causes pain, stiffness, and reduced motion due to cartilage breakdown from aging, genetics, obesity, injuries, or repetitive stress.
Portal hypertension, an elevated pressure in the portal vein due to blockage often from cirrhosis or other pre-hepatic causes, can lead to serious complications like bleeding and ascites.
Secondary pulmonary hypertension, unlike its primary form, arises from underlying conditions such as heart/lung disease, blood clots, or connective tissue disorders, increasing lung artery pressure.
Vertigo, a spinning sensation distinct from dizziness, often stems from inner ear or brain issues like BPPV or Meniere's, sometimes triggered by head trauma or medication.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health condition and medical history.
Other medications in the same category
Controlling High Blood Pressure: A St. Pete Internist's Lifestyle Tips
Understanding Your Blood Pressure Numbers: Beyond Normal vs. High
Recognizing the Early Warning Signs of a Heart AttackTalk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether Carvedilol is right for you.
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