This is from my Discharge Instructions packet for my most recent (my third) myocardial infarction, May 3, 2024. Hard links provided by me. I'm not a medical professional, just a patient.
Carvedilol Oral Tablet
Pharmacologic class
Non-cardioselective beta blocker
Brand Name
Coreg, Coreg CR
Formula
C24H26N2O4
Uses
Most often prescribed for:
Instructions
This medicine will work best if taken at about the same time every day, with food.
Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Do not keep in the bathroom. It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.
If you forget to take a dose on time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not take the missed dose. Return to your normal schedule. Do not take two (or more!) doses simultaneously. Overdose symptoms may include uneven heartbeats, shortness of breath, bluish-colored fingernails, dizziness, weakness, fainting, and/or convulsions.
Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase the risks of side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine. If you need to stop this medicine, your doctor may wish to gradually reduce the dosage before you stop completely, as stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
Tell your doctor if symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.
If you have diabetes, this medicine may hide some signs of low blood sugar, such as rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar regularly and for other signs of low blood sugar such as: nausea, shaking, sweating, cold skin, fast heartbeat, hunger, and irritability. (Yes, hangry is a symptom.)
Please keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.
Cautions
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you've ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine or a food.
Some patients with weak hearts may have worsening symptoms. If you notice
difficulty breathing, weight gain, or swelling of your legs or ankles, let your doctor know right away.
Your ability to stay alert or to react quickly may be impaired by this medicine. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine will affect you.
Please check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while on this medicine. Alcohol can lower blood pressure.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Go slowly and steady yourself to prevent falling.
Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, intending to become pregnant, or breastfeeding because:
- It is unknown if this medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.
- This medicine may hurt a new baby in the womb or increase some risks to the mother. If you become pregnant while on this medicine, call your doctor immediately. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine.
Do not use this medication any more than instructed.
Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine. Keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children.
Side Effects
The following is a list of some common side effects of taking this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.
Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:
- swelling of the legs, feet, or hands
- lack of energy and tiredness
- cold hands or feet
- signs of kidney damage (such as change in urine color or bubbly urine)
- shortness of breath
- sudden or unexplained weight gain
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to carvedilol: hives (skin rash or itching); difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; or severe dizziness. (See anaphylaxis.)
Reminder
Always, always, always speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this, or any, medication. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information you receive online applies to your personal circumstances.
Date of most recent Update
May 6, 2024
Further information is available in the writeup for the brand name(s) of this medication.
References:
https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search?search=carvedilol
https://www.drugs.com/carvedilol.html
https://fpnotebook.com/CV/Pharm/Crvdl.htm
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