Carvedilol (Coreg)

Other Names: Coreg

What is Carvedilol Used For?

Carvedilol may be used to treat high blood pressure and/or congestive heart failure.

How Do You Take Carvedilol?

Take this medication at the same time every day. It is best to take this medication with food. The doctor will tell you how much of the medication to take. Carvedilol is usually started at a low dose and the doctor will increase it slowly over several weeks or months. Do not stop taking Carvedilol unless the doctor has instructed you to do so.

What Special Instructions Do You Need To Know?

If you miss a dose:

Take it as soon as you can but if it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medication and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

If you are diabetic:

This medication may raise or lower your blood sugars. It may also cover up symptoms of low blood sugar (i.e. shakiness and faster heart rate). Another sign of low blood sugar, increased sweating, is not affected by this medication. You may need to monitor your blood sugars more closely.

Are There Side Effects From Taking Carvedilol?

The following side effects may occur:

• Feeling dizzy, weak or drowsy.
• Cold hands and feet.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Sexual side effects.

Check with your doctor if they do not go away or are bothersome. If you notice other side effects not listed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

When Should You Call Your Doctor?

Tell your doctor right away if you have:

• Fainting or severe dizziness.
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Swelling of your feet or ankles.
• Unusual weight gain.
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing.

What Can You Do To Help?

At first, your body may feel different when you start taking Carvedilol. Your heart needs time to adjust to the medicine. Feelings of dizziness and fatigue are normal when you begin taking this medication as long as they are not severe. Once your heart adjusts you will start to feel better, this could take several weeks to a month.

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This information is designed for use in conjunction with teaching by a qualified health professional.
Prepared by: Cardiology Pharmacist's Group

Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)