What it means
A drug that blocks both beta receptors, which slows the heart, and alpha-1 receptors, which relaxes blood vessels. It is one of the beta blockers shown to help people with long-term heart failurehart FAYL-yerA long-term condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.Full entry live longer, and it is also used for high blood pressure and after a heart attack. Common effects are dizziness, tiredness, a slow pulse and low blood pressure on standing.
For the nurse
Check the pulse and blood pressure before each dose and hold it as ordered if they are low. Give it with food to slow absorption and lessen dizziness. Teach the client to stand up slowly, to weigh daily and report quick weight gain or more swelling when the dose is first raised, and never to stop it suddenly.
At a glance
| Drug class | beta blocker with alpha-1 blocking action |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Coreg, Coreg CR |
| Spanish | carvedilol |
| Also written | Coreg, Coreg CR |
Related terms
heart failure
A long-term condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
beta blocker
A drug that blocks the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.
propranolol
A beta blocker that slows the heart and lowers blood pressure by blocking adrenaline's effects on the heart and lungs.
atenolol
A beta blocker taken by mouth that slows the heart and lowers blood pressure, acting mainly on the heart.