Cardivas Cr 40

CARDIVAS CR 40

CARDIVAS CR 40 is a medication manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Cardivas CR 40
  • Common Name: Carvedilol (extended-release)

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains 40 mg of Carvedilol. Carvedilol is a non-selective beta-blocker with alpha-1 blocking activity.

• Uses: CARDIVAS CR 40 is prescribed for the management of various cardiovascular conditions:

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Angina (heart-related chest pain)
  • Moderate to severe chronic heart failure
  • Reduces the risk of heart attack or stroke in adults.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Take CARDIVAS CR 40 exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
  • It should be taken with food to enhance absorption and reduce the likelihood of stomach upset or orthostatic hypotension.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
  • Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your condition.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Dizziness, headache, fatigue, low blood pressure, diarrhea, weight gain, slow heartbeat (bradycardia), and dry eyes.
  • Serious Side Effects: Fainting, shortness of breath, significant weight gain, swelling of arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, chest pain, slow or irregular heartbeat, rash, hives, itching, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

• Precautions:

  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
  • Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of side effects.
  • Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery as it may cause dizziness or tiredness.
  • Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or diabetes.
  • Not recommended for children below 18 years of age.
  • Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
  • Maintain temperature between 10°C to 25°C or below 30°C.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Cardivas CR 40, manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD., contains carvedilol, an alpha and beta-blocker medication. It is primarily used to treat various heart conditions.

What is Cardivas CR 40 used for?

Cardivas CR 40 is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), moderate to severe heart failure, and angina (heart-related chest pain). It also helps reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke in adults and is used to improve survival after a heart attack, particularly in patients with left ventricular dysfunction.

How does Cardivas CR 40 work?

Cardivas CR 40 contains Carvedilol, which functions as an alpha and beta-blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing down the heart rate. This is achieved by blocking the action of certain natural substances in the body, such as epinephrine (adrenaline), which in turn lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart, thereby improving blood flow.

What is the usual dosage of Cardivas CR 40?

The dosage of Cardivas CR 40 is determined by your doctor based on your specific condition and how you respond to the medication. As an extended-release tablet, it is typically taken once daily, preferably with food, to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of low blood pressure. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions precisely and not exceed the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of Cardivas CR 40?

Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, fatigue, low blood pressure, diarrhea, weight gain, and a slow heart rate. Some individuals may also experience nausea, shortness of breath, dry eyes, or increased blood sugar levels.

More serious side effects, though less common, can include fainting, severe shortness of breath, significant weight gain, swelling in the arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, chest pain, an irregular or very slow heartbeat, rash, hives, itching, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Cardivas CR 40 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: It is generally advised to avoid Cardivas CR 40 during pregnancy, and you should consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or suspect you might be pregnant. There is limited information on its safety during pregnancy, with some sources indicating it may be unsafe.

Breastfeeding: Carvedilol, the active ingredient in Cardivas CR 40, can pass into breast milk. Therefore, it is generally advised to avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication as it may cause adverse effects in the baby. Always consult your doctor for guidance if you are breastfeeding.

Can Cardivas CR 40 be taken with other medications?

Cardivas CR 40 can interact with other medications, supplements, and herbal products. It is essential to inform your doctor about all other medicines you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions. For instance, combining it with clonidine can further lower blood pressure and heart rate. If you have diabetes and are on medication, Cardivas CR 40 may mask symptoms of low blood sugar.

What precautions should be taken while on Cardivas CR 40?

• Do not stop abruptly: Do not discontinue Cardivas CR 40 without consulting your doctor, as sudden cessation can worsen your condition or lead to adverse effects like chest pain or a heart attack. Your doctor will advise on gradual dosage reduction if needed.
• Take with food: Always take this medicine with food to help reduce the risk of dizziness or fainting due to low blood pressure.
• Avoid alcohol: Consuming alcohol while taking Cardivas CR 40 is unsafe and can increase dizziness and lower blood pressure further.
• Driving and machinery: This medication may cause dizziness or tiredness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how it affects you.
• Medical conditions: Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, liver or kidney disease, asthma, severe slow heart rate, heart block, or any respiratory problems.
• Surgery: If you are scheduled for any surgery, including dental or eye surgery, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Cardivas CR 40.
• Grapefruit juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it may increase the levels of carvedilol in your body.

What happens if a dose of Cardivas CR 40 is missed?

If you miss a dose of Cardivas CR 40, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should Cardivas CR 40 be stored?

Store Cardivas CR 40 in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The ideal temperature range is typically between 20°C to 25°C or below 30°C. Keep this medicine out of sight and reach of children.