Cardiology · Non-selective β + α₁ blocker
Carvedilol
Dose
HF: 3.125 mg BD, double q2 weeks to 25 mg BD (50 mg BD if >85 kg).
Mechanism
β₁/β₂/α₁ blockade → ↓afterload + ↓HR + antioxidant.
Indications
- • HFrEF (prognostic)
- • Post-MI LV dysfunction
- • Hypertension
Contraindications
- • Decompensated HF requiring inotropes
- • Bronchial asthma
- • Severe bradycardia/heart block
Use
Preferred β-blocker if concurrent hypertension.
Monitoring
BP (postural), HR, weight, U&E.
Side effects
- • Postural hypotension (with first dose)
- • Fatigue
- • Bradycardia
- • Weight gain
- • Hyperglycaemia
Related in WardRound
Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.
