Carvedilol tablets
What do carvedilol tablets do?
CARVEDILOL (Coreg(TM)) belongs to a group of medicines called beta-blockers. Beta-blockers have many actions on the heart and blood vessels. Carvedilol is used for high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. Carvedilol controls, but does not cure, high blood pressure. High blood pressure may not make you feel sick, but it can lead to serious health problems.
What should my health care professional know before I take carvedilol?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• asthma, bronchitis or bronchospasm
• circulation problems
• depression
• diabetes
• emphysema, or other lung disease
• history of heart attack or heart disease
• liver disease
• muscle weakness or disease
• psoriasis
• thyroid disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to carvedilol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take carvedilol tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. It is best to take the tablets with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. There should be at least 12 hours between doses.
What other medicines can interact with carvedilol?
• cimetidine
• digoxin
• diltiazem
• hawthorn
• medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
• medicines for diabetes
• medicines for high blood pressure
• rifampin
• verapamil
• water pills (diuretics)
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking carvedilol?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
• continued loss of appetite
• difficulty breathing, wheezing
• dizziness or fainting spells
• dark urine
• flu-like symptoms
• irregular heartbeat
• skin rash
• slow heart rate (fewer than recommended by your prescriber or health care professional)
• swollen legs or ankles
• vomiting
• weight gain
• yellowing of the eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• back pain
• diarrhea
• dry eyes (especially if wearing contact lenses)
• dry, itching skin
• headache
• insomnia
• nausea
• sore throat
• unusual tiredness