Cardilol tablets are a multi-action oral medication used to treat important cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension) and congestive heart failure. It belongs to a unique class of medications known as non-selective beta- and alpha-adrenergic blockers. This dual mechanism of action makes Cardilol effective in lowering blood pressure, improving heart function, and reducing the risk of complications associated with cardiovascular disease. It also plays a role in improving survival in patients recovering from a heart attack.
The active ingredient in Cardilol tablets
Cardilol tablets contain the following active ingredient:
Carvedilol: A non-selective beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptor blocker, as well as an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blocker. This dual mechanism gives it multiple benefits:
Blocking beta receptors: It slows the heart rate and reduces the force of myocardial contraction, reducing the workload on the heart and lowering blood pressure. It also helps relax blood vessels.
Alpha-receptor blocking: This causes vasodilation, which reduces resistance to blood flow and further contributes to lowering blood pressure.
Antioxidant effect: Carvedilol also has antioxidant properties, which may provide additional cardiovascular protection.
Available strengths
Carvedilol tablets are available in various strengths to provide flexibility in determining the appropriate dose for each patient based on their medical condition and response to treatment. Common strengths available on the market include:
3.125 mg
6.25 mg
12.5 mg
25 mg
Treatment is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased under the supervision of a physician to achieve the optimal dose that achieves the desired therapeutic benefit with minimal side effects.
Indications for use of Cardilol tablets
Carvedilol tablets are used to treat the following conditions:
High blood pressure (hypertension): Carvedilol is an effective option for lowering blood pressure and is often used alone or in combination with other blood pressure-lowering medications.
Congestive heart failure: Carvedilol is used to improve heart function and reduce symptoms of chronic heart failure, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and leg swelling. It helps improve the heart's ability to pump blood and reduces the risk of hospitalization due to heart failure.
Improving the chances of survival after a heart attack: Carvedilol is prescribed to some patients who have recovered from a heart attack to improve their chances of survival and reduce the risk of further heart attacks.
Drug Interactions for Cardilol Tablets
Carvedilol can interact with many other medications, which may affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, it is essential to inform your doctor of all medications and nutritional supplements you are taking before starting Carvedilol tablets. Important medications that may interact with Carvedilol include:
Other blood pressure lowering medications: Concomitant use may lead to excessively low blood pressure.
Other heart medications (such as digoxin and amiodarone): These may affect heart rate or the conduction of electrical signals in the heart.
Diabetes medications (insulin and oral medications): Carvedilol may affect blood sugar control and may mask signs of low blood sugar.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): May reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of carvedilol.
Some antidepressants: May increase the risk of dizziness or low blood pressure.
Cimetidine: May increase blood levels of carvedilol.
Rifampin: May reduce blood levels of carvedilol.
Carvedilol tablets storage conditions
Carvedilol tablets should be stored at room temperature (between 15 and 30°C), away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets, and ensure the container is tightly closed after use.