Patients who have high blood pressure or have experienced heart failure or heart attack may benefit from treatment with a medication called carvedilol. Carvedilol is a beta-blocker that helps relax the blood vessels, which improves the rate of blood flow throughout the entire body. Patients should discuss carvedilol side effects with a physician before taking this medication.
Hyperglycemia
Treatment with carvedilol may induce hyperglycemia or high blood sugar levels in certain patients. Hyperglycemia may cause excessive thirst, which can lead to increased or frequent urination, according to MedlinePlus. Excessive thirst may be accompanied by dry mouth side effects, such as throat irritation or thick saliva. High sugar levels in the blood can also result in constant hunger, blurred or cloudy vision and weakness. Patients who exhibit any of these side effects while taking carvedilol should consult a medical professional for additional guidance and care.
Upset Stomach
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea may occur as upset stomach side effects in patients taking this medication. These gastrointestinal symptoms may result in a temporary decrease in appetite. Patients who develop diarrhea may also experience additional stomach discomfort, including stomach pain or abdominal cramping or bloating.
Fatigue, Joint Pain or Weakness
Joint pain, also called arthralgia, was reported by approximately 6 percent of heart failure patients who received treatment with carvedilol during clinical trials, according to RxList. Such side effects may contribute to body weakness or fatigue in certain patients. In combination, these side effects may cause patients to have difficulty moving about normally or participating in their usual daily activities.
Numbness or Tingling
Sensations of numbness or tingling may arise within the limbs of patients treated with carvedilol. Affected patients may notice these unusual sensations within their feet or hands, Drugs.com warns. If these side effects occur in conjunction with unusual body swelling, affected patients should seek prompt medical care.
Dizziness or Headache
During clinical trials for carvedilol, approximately 32 percent of heart failure patients reported experiencing dizziness or lightheadedness. Episodes of lightheadedness may lead to mobility problems in certain patients. Head pain may develop in conjunction with dizziness, which may make it difficult for patients to focus or remain attentive and alert during daily activities. If head pain is disruptive or bothersome, patients can take an over-the-counter pain medication to alleviate head discomfort.
Dry Eyes
Carvedilol may cause dry eye side effects in treated patients, MedlinePlus warns. Dry eye can result in eye irritation, vision changes or excessive tearing. If these side effects occur, patients should seek care from a physician as soon as possible.
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