Coreg

Common Name: carvedilol

How does Coreg work?

Carvedilol is used to treat congestive heart failure, including severe heart failure, for people who are already taking a diuretic (water pill) and an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Congestive heart failure occurs when the heart isn't able to pump efficiently enough to supply adequate amounts of oxygen-rich blood to different areas of the body. Carvedilol helps this situation by relaxing blood vessels, reducing the need for oxygen in the body, and by helping the heart to beat more regularly and efficiently. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Coreg?

Carvedilol is usually started with at a dose of 3.125 mg twice daily in order to allow the body to get used to it. Your doctor will then usually increase the dose every 2 weeks until the most effective dose is reached. Different people will need different doses of this medication, and your doctor will prescribe the dose for you that best meets your needs. Carvedilol should be taken with food. If you miss a dose of carvedilol, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose and carry on as usual with your next dose. Never double-up on doses. It is important to take this medication regularly and to follow your doctor's instructions to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from the medication. Store carvedilol at normal room temperature in a dry place (i.e., not in the bathroom).

What form(s) does Coreg come in?

Coreg® is available in strengths of 3.125 mg, 6.25 mg, 12.5 mg, and 25 mg. 3.125 mg: Each white, oval, film-coated tablet, imprinted with "39" and "SB", contains carvedilol 3.125 mg. 6.25 mg: Each white, oval, film-coated tablet, imprinted with "4140" and "SB", contains carvedilol 6.25 mg. 12.5 mg: Each white, oval, film-coated tablet, imprinted with "4141" and "SB", contains carvedilol 12.5 mg. 25 mg: Each white, oval, film-coated tablet, imprinted with "4142" and "SB", contains carvedilol 25 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: colloidal silicone dioxide, crospovidone, lactose, magnesium stearate, Opadry white YS-1-7003 and Opadry clear YS-2-7013, povidone, and sucrose.

What should I NOT take with Coreg?

Carvedilol should not be taken by anyone who has: an allergy to carvedilol or any of the ingredients of the product a type of heart failure known as decompensated heart failure bronchial asthma or certain other breathing conditions certain types of heart rhythm problems severely low blood pressure a very slow heart rate certain types of liver disease mental incapacity, unless closely supervised by an appropriate caregiver

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Coreg?

Medical conditions: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions: asthma or breathing conditions angina slow heart rate diabetes low blood sugar kidney disease liver disease overactive thyroid vascular disease Sudden stopping of medication: People with heart disease who stop taking this mediation abruptly may experience severe effects, such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or heart attack. If you have heart disease, do not stop taking this medication suddenly without checking with your doctor first. When this medication needs to be stopped, it should be done gradually. Pregnancy: Carvedilol has not been studied for use by pregnant women. Other medications of this class have been shown to cause premature deliveries or injury to the child. Before taking this medication, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether carvedilol passes into breast milk. Breast-feeding is generally not recommended because of the possibility of serious side effects to the child. Discuss this with your doctor. Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children.