Coreg (carvedilol) is used to treat heart failure and high blood pressure (or hypertension), and this alpha- and beta-blocker is often administered after a heart attack to help patients avoid a recurrence. It is also used as a preventive measure, because high blood pressure can cause heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure without proper treatment.

Coreg is considered to be an alpha-blocker because it is effective in treating high blood pressure. This category of medications is seldom used alone, and you may be familiar with them because they are prescribed for treating a variety of illnesses. Since it is also a beta-blocker, Coreg will lower your blood pressure by causing the heart to beat more slowly and less forcefully, and it helps the blood vessels to relax as it works. As result, the blood encounters less resistance as it circulates through the body, and the flow is not obstructed.

Note that while this drug has not been approved for use by children, it is sometimes administered to them as an “off label’ remedy for certain specified conditions that they may develop. At times, Coreg is also recommended to adults in the treatments of angina (chest pain) migraine headaches, and other “off label” conditions related to the circulatory system.

How Coreg works in the body

It blocks the action of certain chemicals in the body that affect the circulatory system by lowering the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate. When Coreg is used to treat high blood pressure, which is common, patients may take a week or two to feel the full effects of this medication, and they should continue taking it even if when they feel well. In addition, this should be avoided if you have a certain type of heart-rhythm problem, asthma, or sever heart failure.

Coreg may make you feel drowsy or dizzy, or even cause you to faint, often within an hour after taking the drug. You should not use machinery, drive, or engage in any activity that requires you to be mentally alert until you feel safe in doing so, and alcoholic beverages should be limited as well.

Coreg and various health problems

This drug may help prevent the rapid heartbeat diabetics experience when their blood sugar level is too low, but other symptoms of hypoglycemia, including sweating and dizziness, are not relieved by this medication. In addition, older adults may be more likely to experience its side effects, particularly lightheadedness and dizziness, and they should use it with caution.

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