৳ 5.02/unit
Pack: ৳ 70.28
৳ 5.02/unit
Pack: ৳ 70.28
At a glance
Carvedilol is a nonselective beta-adrenergic and alpha-adrenergic blocker used in the treatment of hypertension, angina, and heart failure. It reduces total peripheral resistance and causes vasodilation to lower blood pressure.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Angina pectoris
- Heart failure (mild, moderate, severe - ischemic or cardiomyopathic origin)
Pharmacology
Carvedilol is a cardiovascular drug whose main pharmacological action is non-selective antagonism of β-adrenergic receptors but which also possesses appreciable α-adrenergic antagonistic activity. It also has antiproliferative properties and is a scavenger of reactive free oxidant radicals.
Dosage
Hypertension: Initial 12.5 mg once daily; after 2 days increase to 25 mg once daily; if needed, increase every 2 weeks up to 50 mg/day (single or divided doses). Elderly: 12.5 mg/day may be sufficient.
Angina pectoris: First 2 days: 12.5 mg twice daily; then 25 mg twice daily. Elderly: Max 50 mg/day in divided doses.
Heart Failure (Immediate release): Initial 3.125 mg twice daily (with food); increase every 2 weeks to 6.25 mg, then 12.5 mg, then 25 mg twice daily. <85 kg: Max 25 mg twice daily; ≥85 kg: Max 50 mg twice daily.
Heart Failure (Extended release): 10 mg/day; maintain for 1-2 weeks; increase to 20, 40, or 80 mg/day as needed.
Post-MI LV Dysfunction: 3.125-6.25 mg twice daily; increase after 3-10 days to 12.5 mg twice daily, then to 25 mg twice daily (target).
Extended release (Post-MI): 10-20 mg/day; increase every 3-10 days up to 80 mg/day.
Renal impairment: No dosage adjustment needed.
Hepatic impairment: Contraindicated in severe impairment; caution required.
Children: Safety and efficacy not established.
Elderly: Start with lower doses.
Side effects
Common side effects: Postural hypotension, dizziness, headache, fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances, bradycardia.
Uncommon: Diminished peripheral circulation, peripheral edema, painful extremities, dry mouth, dry eyes, eye irritation or disturbed vision, impotence, micturition disturbances, influenza-like symptoms, angina, AV block, exacerbation of intermittent claudication or Raynaud's phenomenon, allergic skin reactions, exacerbation of psoriasis, nasal stuffiness, wheezing, depressed mood, sleep disturbances, paresthesia, heart failure, changes in liver enzymes, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia.
Avoid driving or activities requiring concentration until you know how this medicine affects you.
Use in pregnancy
May be unsafe during pregnancy (Category C). Limited human studies available; animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Animal studies show it crosses the placental barrier. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Take with food (improves absorption and reduces hypotension).
- Monitor clinical status for 2-3 hours after initiation and after each dose increase; ensure renal function and heart failure are not deteriorating before increasing dose.
- Do not stop abruptly (may cause sudden rise in blood pressure, increasing risk of heart attack and stroke).
- May cause dizziness or sleepiness; know your response before driving.
- Avoid alcohol consumption (may worsen side effects).
- Contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment; caution in liver disease.
- Caution during pregnancy and lactation (Category C).
- Regular blood pressure monitoring is recommended.
Overdose effects
Overdose symptoms: Severe bradycardia, hypotension, respiratory distress, heart failure, seizures. Treatment: Supportive and symptomatic; may require atropine, glucagon, vasopressors, bronchodilators.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.