Coreg is a prescription medication containing the drug carvedilol. Coreg is indicated for treatment of heart failure and high blood pressure. It is also indicated for patients who have an inadequately functioning left ventricle following a heart attack. Your doctor may choose to monitor you closely during initiation of Coreg or during dosage increases. It is important to take this drug exactly as prescribed and report side effects to your physician.
Dizziness
Coreg can cause significant dizziness, especially within the first hour of taking your initial dose or an increased dose. This side effect is more likely for patients with heart failure. Dizziness may be accompanied by lightheadedness or fainting. Do not attempt to drive a car or perform other critical tasks while experiencing any of these side effects.
Low Heart Rate
Carvedilol can cause you to have a heart rate below 60 beats per minute. This can leave you feeling tired.
Low Blood Pressure
Coreg often lowers your blood pressure, which can be advantageous if you have hypertension. However, if you take this drug for heart failure or left ventricular dysfunction, your blood pressure could become lower than ideal for you. This effect can make you feel tired or weak.
Fatigue
The "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" reports that fatigue is a common side effect of Coreg. For some patients, this effect will be improve over time. You may feel depressed or have worsened depression if you already suffer from it. You may experience difficulty getting a good night's sleep.
Abdominal Pain
You may experience pain or discomfort in your abdominal area. This is often accompanied by constipation. Other patients have noted nausea, vomiting and diarrhea due to taking Coreg. You may also experience increased intestinal gas. Drugs.com reports that patients taking this drug have had complaints of blood in their stool and weight loss.
Ringing In the Ear
Hearing a noise or ringing in one or both ears is a common complaint among patients taking this medication. You may also have blurry vision or an increased incidence of headache.
Difficulty Breathing
You may feel short of breath, with or without exertion. You may feel more nervous or anxious than usual.
Cold Hands and Feet
Coreg may make your hands and feet feel cold. Alternatively, you may have temporary numbness or tingling in your extremities. Your legs and feet may swell, and you may experience muscle cramps.
Sexual Difficulties
This drug can cause impotence. You may notice a decreased interest in sex or an inability to have an orgasm.
References
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide;" Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
- Drugs.com: Coreg: Prescribing Information
- Drugs.com: Coreg: Consumer Information
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