Coreg (Carvedilol)

Description

Carvedilol, more commonly known as Coreg, is a medication used to lower high blood pressure as well as to treat heart failure. One of the most beneficial qualities of this medicine is its ability to increase an individual’s chances of survival after a heart attack – especially if your heart’s pumping rate is low.

How it works

Since Coreg is a beta-blocker, it works by controlling the undesirable effects of various natural substances that can damage blood vessels. This reduces blood pressure and enables the heart to pump blood more effectively through the arteries and veins. By taking control of the heart as well as blood circulation, this drug ensures that your blood pressure is maintained at a neutral level.

Its uses

Apart from treating high blood pressure and heart failures, Coreg is also capable of preventing heart attacks and kidney issues. The medication is also used to treat a condition known as atrial fibrillation which influences irregular heartbeat.

Dosage

Usually, this medication is taken twice a day during meals. However, the dosage can differ depending on your health condition. It is best to start with a low dosage and increase it gradually in order to reduce the occurrence of side effects. For blood pressure patients, it will take up to 2 weeks to experience the full effects of this drug. If you want to change your dosage or schedule, it is best to get the opinion of your physician beforehand.

Side effects

Taking this medication for a long period of time can result in certain side effects such as:

 Uneven heartbeats
 Wheezing
 Chest pain
 High blood sugar
 Numbness
 Weight gain
 Troubled breathing

Although you might not experience all the above symptoms mentioned, it is best to stay on the lookout for them since they can deteriorate the state of your health. If you do experience these effects, contact your healthcare provider for assistance.

Precautions

 Ensure that you take the following guidelines seriously since not following them can result in dangerous consequences.

 Consuming any beta-blocker can impair your thinking and reacting. Therefore, do not take this medicine right before driving or going to work/school

 Do not consume alcohol 2 hours before and after taking Coreg since it damage the effectiveness of the medication

 Do not consider doing a cataract surgery while consuming this medication since it can affect your pupils

 Coreg works best when consumed with food. So make sure that you take it during your meal – unless your physician tells you otherwise

 Do not stop taking the medication abruptly or change the dosage without your health provider’s consent
Self-care

 It is important to go for regular check-ups to keep track of your blood pressure. This will not only help you to see if the medication has a positive effect on your health condition, but it will also enable you to trace any of symptoms of possible side effects.

 Remember that Coreg is only one part of your treatment program. The medication will not be effective, if you do not follow your diet and exercise routines on a regular basis. Therefore, give equal attention to all treatment methods for a quick and effective recovery.