Generic Carvedilol

Generic carvedilol (Coreg) is currently produced by a number of manufacturers. The drug is available in four strengths and has been shown to be equivalent to the brand-name version of the drug.

 

An Overview of Generic Carvedilol

Carvedilol (Coreg®) is a prescription medication that is used to:
 
 
Carvedilol may also be used for other reasons, such as for the relief of migraines or anxiety.
 
Carvedilol is part of a class of medicines called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, or beta blockers for short. As the name suggests, carvedilol helps to block beta receptors, which are receptors in the body that bind to stress hormones, such as adrenaline (epinephrine). These receptors are found in many places throughout the body, including the heart and blood vessels. By blocking beta receptors, carvedilol causes the reverse effect of stress hormones. It decreases heart rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressures, as well as the workload on the heart. As a result, the heart requires less blood and oxygen to work properly. Unlike a lot of other beta blockers, carvedilol also blocks alpha receptors. The alpha blocker component of carvedilol works more on the peripheral blood vessels (arteries and veins) or on blood vessels in the arms and legs. By blocking the alpha receptors, carvedilol relaxes these blood vessels.
 
Carvedilol was originally developed by GlaxoSmithKline and was sold under the name Coreg. However, the patents for Coreg have expired, and generic versions are now available.
 

Strengths of Generic Carvedilol

Generic carvedlilol tablets are available in the following strengths:
 
  • Carvedilol 3.125 mg
  • Carvedilol 6.25 mg
  • Carvedilol 12.5 mg
  • Carvedilol 25 mg.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;