Corgard

Common Name: nadolol

How does Corgard work?

Nadolol belongs to the class of medications called beta-blockers. It is used for the prevention of symptoms of angina (chest pain) and for the treatment of high blood pressure. When used for the treatment of high blood pressure, it may be used alone or in combination other medications. It works by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the demands on the heart. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Corgard?

The recommended dose of nadolol ranges from 40 mg daily to 320 mg daily in one daily dose, with or without food. For the treatment of angina pectoris or high blood pressure, the recommended starting dose is 80 mg once daily. If the desired response is not achieved after one week, your doctor may increase the daily dose by 80 mg in weekly intervals (e.g., in week 1, the dose is 80 mg; in week 2, the dose is 160 mg; etc.). The maximum recommended daily dose is 240 mg for treatment of angina pectoris and 320 mg for treatment of high blood pressure. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken regularly and exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without first talking with your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on with your regular schedule. If it is within eight hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

What form(s) does Corgard come in?

Corgard® is available in strengths of 40 mg, 80 mg, and 160 mg. 40 mg: Each off-white, round tablet, scored on one side and engraved "CORGARD 40" on the other, contains nadolol 40 mg. 80 mg: Each off-white, round tablet, engraved with "SQUIBB" and a partial bisect bar on one side and "CORGARD 80" on the other, contains nadolol 80 mg. 160 mg: Each blue, flat, capsule-shaped tablet, scored on both sides with a partial bisect bar and engraved "SQUIBB" on one side and "Corgard 160" on the other, contains nadolol 160 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: For 40 mg and 80 mg tablets: citric acid, cornstarch, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and povidone. For 160 mg tablets: citric acid, cornstarch, FD&C No. 2 and Blue No. 2 Aluminum Lake, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and povidone.

What should I NOT take with Corgard?

Nadolol should not be taken by people who: are allergic to nadolol or any ingredients of the medication have a severely slow heart rate have serious heart block have right ventricular failure caused by pulmonary hypertension have uncontrolled congestive heart failure have very low blood pressure have asthma or a history of obstructive airway disease have allergic rhinitis are in cardiogenic shock are being treated with anesthetics that reduce the function of the heart (e.g., ether)

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Corgard?

Breathing problems: Patients with asthma and certain other breathing problems should not take nadolol. Diabetes: The signs of low blood sugar may not be as noticeable when taking nadolol. People with diabetes who take insulin or other medications that work by reducing the insulin in the blood should be cautious and monitor blood sugar carefully while taking this medication. Dizziness: Move slowly when moving from a lying or sitting position to a standing position as dizziness may occur, especially when this medication is first being started. Hyperthyroidism (high level of thyroid hormones): People with hyperthyroidism should be cautious while taking nadolol as it may reduce the symptoms of this condition giving a false impression of improvement. Stopping the medication suddenly could worsen this condition. Severe allergies: People with allergies severe enough to cause anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction where swelling of the face, lips, and throat make it difficult to breathe) should talk to their doctor about what to do if they have an allergic reaction. Nadolol may make it more difficult to treat their allergic reaction with epinephrine. Stopping medication: Nadolol should not be stopped suddenly by people who are taking it to treat angina. There have been reports of severe worsening of angina, and of heart attack or abnormal heart rhythms occurring for people with angina pectoris who have done this. Surgery: If you are scheduled for surgery, inform all doctors involved in your care that you take nadolol. Pregnancy: There is no adequate information on the use of nadolol by pregnant women. Nadolol should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks. Breast-feeding: Nadolol passes into breast milk. Therefore, the use of this medication by nursing women is not recommended. Children: There is no experience with nadolol in the treatment of children.