Coreg (carvedilol) is a medication commonly used to treat individuals with congestive heart failure and lower the blood pressure of those with hypertension. It may also be used for other issues, such as arrhythmias.
Carvedilol is a beta-blocker, meaning it stops the hormone adrenaline from working within the heart and blood vessels. Due to the chemical makeup of this medication, an emergency dose of carvedilol is given to those who have had a heart attack. This is meant to reduce the risk of fatal side effects and prevent further injury.
Carvedilol, which is sold under the brand name Coreg, comes in tablet and capsule form. In addition, there is an extended-release version available, called Coreg CR.
Uses
The two primary approved uses of carvedilol include slowing the progression of congestive heart failure and lowering blood pressure in those who have hypertension. Another approved use is a dosage administered immediately following a heart attack or myocardial infarction.
This medication stops certain hormones from working in the heart, allowing the cardiovascular system to maintain a stable and balanced state. This balance decreases the overall strain on the heart.
The intensity with which carvedilol works is dependent on whether or not it is taken with a meal. Therefore, doctors may educate patients taking carvedilol to take their dose with food to decrease the risk of an unsafe drop in blood pressure, also called hypotension.
Carvedilol may also cause orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure when going from supine to standing. The half-life of carvedilol is typically seven to 10 hours after it is taken, and it takes about four half-lives to be eliminated from the body (about 28-40 hours).
Coreg Dosage
While the dosage is individualized based on the patient’s medical history, tolerance, and other medical conditions, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), along with the manufacturer, has developed standard doses to guide practice. Capsules and tablets of carvedilol come in 3.125 milligrams (mg), 6.25 mg, 12.5 mg, and 25 mg.
The recommended starting dosage for patients with congestive heart failure is 3.125 milligrams twice daily for two weeks.
This dosage may be increased depending on patient tolerance. For example, obese patients may receive a maximum dosage of up to 50 mg twice daily.
Starting dosage for patients who recently experienced a heart attack is 6.25 mg twice daily for ten days, with dosage adjusted depending on patient tolerance.
The recommended dosage for patients with hypertension is 6.25 mg twice daily for seven to 14 days. After that, adjustments will be made as needed depending on patient tolerance.
All listed dosages are according to the drug manufacturer and experts. Be sure to check your prescription and talk to your doctor to ensure you are taking the correct dose for your situation.
Carvedilol has a black box warning, which the FDA places on medications with potentially severe effects. Click here to know more about the potential Coreg side effects and more on Coreg dosage.
Understanding Crestor Vs. Lipitor
| Crestor | Lipitor | |
| About | A brand of rosuvastatin, a member of the drug class of statins, is weight loss used in combination with exercise, diet, and weight loss to treat high cholesterol and related conditions and to prevent cardiovascular disease. Shionogi developed it. | Brand of atorvastatin, a member of the drug class of statins, used for lowering blood cholesterol. It also stabilizes plaque and prevents strokes through anti-inflammation and other mechanisms. |
| Manufacturer | AstraZeneca | Pfizer |
| Oral Dosage | 5mg, 10mg, 20 mg, 40 mg | 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg |
| Usage | With or without food | It May be used in combination with a bile acid-binding resin for additive effect |
| Interactions | Blood thinners, such as warfarin Cyclosporine, indinavir, Antacids Other high cholesterol medications HIV protease inhibitors. | Antifungal medications, oral contraceptives, other cholesterol-lowering medications, HIV protease inhibitors, medications that suppress the immune system. |
Click here to know more about the different elements, effects, and analysis of Crestor vs. Lipitor.
Conclusion
Carvedilol or Coreg dosage is best avoided in people who have taken cocaine because the combination can increase heart rate, increase blood pressure, and increase stroke and heart attack risk.
Do not take extended-release carvedilol within two hours of consuming alcohol, as this can impact the rate of absorption and cause an increase in cardiovascular symptoms.
