Carvedilol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).
Carvedilol is used to treat heart failure and hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also used after a heart attack that has caused your heart not to pump as well.
6.25 mg Carvedilol taken twice per day. It starts lowering blood pressure within 30 minutes to 1 hour after the first dose. It reaches its peak effect around 4 to 5 hours after taking it but leaves your system in about 7 to 10 hours.
Usage
Take this medication by mouth, with a meal, as directed by your doctor, usually 2 times a day.
This drug should be taken with food to slow the rate of absorption and reduce the incidence of orthostatic effects. Orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure when standing up, is a known side effect of Carvedilol. This effect is more common in older adults (60+ years) and those taking Carvedilol for 6-12 months.
Side effects
Drowsiness, dizziness may occur.
To make sure carvedilol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have: diabetes (taking carvedilol can make it harder for you to tell when you have low blood sugar).
Pharmacology
Mechanism of action
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