Dilatrol tablets are an effective oral medication containing the active ingredient carvedilol. Carvedilol belongs to a unique class of drugs that combine the properties of beta-adrenergic receptor blockers and alpha-1 adrenergic receptor blockers. This dual mechanism makes Dilatrol a valuable drug in the treatment of a range of cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension and congestive heart failure, as well as in the prevention of angina pectoris in some cases. Carvedilol works by blocking the effect of natural hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline on beta receptors in the heart and blood vessels, slowing the heart rate, reducing the force of the heart's contraction, and dilating blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the workload on the heart. In addition, blocking alpha-1 receptors also helps dilate blood vessels and lower blood pressure. These multiple effects make Dilatrol an effective drug for improving cardiovascular function and reducing the risk of complications associated with high blood pressure and heart failure.
The active ingredient in Dilatrol tablets
Dilatrol tablets contain the following active ingredient, which is the basis of its therapeutic effect in managing cardiovascular diseases:
Carvedilol: A chemical compound that acts as a non-selective blocker of beta-adrenergic receptors (β1 and β2) and alpha-1-adrenergic receptors (α1). Being non-selective for beta receptors means that it blocks the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline on both beta-1 receptors located primarily in the heart (responsible for increasing heart rate and contraction force) and beta-2 receptors located in the lungs and blood vessels (responsible for bronchodilation and vasodilation). In addition, blocking alpha-1 receptors in blood vessels leads to dilation and reduced peripheral resistance, effectively contributing to lowering blood pressure. This dual mechanism makes carvedilol unique among other beta-blockers.
Available Strengths
Dilatrol tablets are typically available in a variety of carvedilol strengths to provide flexibility in initiating treatment and gradually adjusting the dose based on the patient's response and tolerance to the drug:
3.125 mg: This low dose is often used to initiate treatment, especially in cases of heart failure, to reduce the risk of side effects, and is then gradually increased.
6.25 mg: Can be used as a starting dose for hypertension or as the next step in dose escalation for heart failure.
12.5 mg: Used as a maintenance dose for many patients with hypertension or heart failure.
25 mg: This is considered a higher dose and may be necessary for some patients to achieve adequate blood pressure control or manage the symptoms of heart failure.
The initial and target dose are carefully determined and adjusted by the physician based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient's condition, disease severity, response to treatment, and tolerance to side effects. It is essential to strictly adhere to the physician's instructions regarding the dosage and timing of the medication and not to change or stop them on your own. Dilatrol is usually taken twice daily with food to reduce the risk of dizziness and slow drug absorption.
Indications for Use of Dilatrol Tablets
Dilatrol tablets are primarily used to treat the following cardiovascular conditions:
Essential hypertension: Used as a single treatment or in combination with other medications to lower and control high blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease.
Chronic congestive heart failure: Used as part of standard treatment to improve heart function, reduce symptoms (such as shortness of breath and swelling), increase exercise capacity, and reduce the risk of hospitalization and death in patients with stable heart failure. Preventing stable angina: In some cases, Dilatrol may be used to reduce the frequency of chest pain attacks caused by decreased blood flow to the heart during physical exertion or emotional stress.