Carloc 25 Tablet

CARLOC 25 TABLET by CIPLA LTD.

Name: Carloc 25 Tablet (Brand name), Carvedilol (Common name/Active ingredient)

Composition: Each uncoated tablet contains Carvedilol 25 mg.

Uses: Carloc 25 Tablet is primarily prescribed for the treatment of:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Angina (heart-related chest pain)
• Congestive Heart Failure (a condition where the heart is unable to pump blood efficiently) It also helps in reducing the risk of future heart attacks and strokes.

Dosage and Administration: Carloc 25 Tablet should be taken with food. The dosage and duration are determined by a doctor based on the specific condition and individual response. It's crucial to take the medicine regularly as prescribed and not to stop without consulting a doctor, as this can worsen the condition.

• Hypertension: An initial dose of 12.5 mg once daily, which may be increased up to 25 mg once daily after two days.
• Angina: An initial dose of 12.5 mg twice a day, which may be increased up to 25 mg twice a day after two days.
• Heart Failure: The recommended starting dose is usually 3.125 mg twice daily for two weeks, with gradual increases to 6.25 mg, 12.5 mg, and 25 mg twice daily over successive intervals of at least two weeks, if tolerated. A maximum dose of 50 mg twice daily has been administered for patients with mild-to-moderate heart failure weighing over 85 kg.

Side Effects:

• Common Side Effects: Dizziness, headache, fatigue/tiredness, low blood pressure, breathlessness, diarrhea, increased blood glucose levels, and weight gain. Other common side effects may include weakness, swelling of arms and legs, nausea, vomiting, stomach pains, indigestion, constipation, vision problems, sore or dry eyes, and poor blood circulation in limbs.
• Serious Side Effects: Fainting, shortness of breath, significant weight gain, swelling of the arms, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, chest pain, slow or irregular heartbeat, rash, hives, itching, and difficulty breathing and swallowing. Immediate medical attention is required if these occur.

Precautions:

• Alcohol: Unsafe to consume alcohol with Carloc 25 Tablet as it may increase the risk of low blood pressure and adverse effects like dizziness.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult a doctor; Carloc 25 Tablet may be unsafe during pregnancy (Category C) but is probably safe during breastfeeding if prescribed.
• Driving: May decrease alertness, affect vision, or cause sleepiness and dizziness; avoid driving or activities requiring concentration until effects are known.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver disease, kidney disease (though generally safe if prescribed, close monitoring is advised), diabetes (may mask hypoglycemia symptoms, blood glucose monitoring recommended), and respiratory problems like asthma or bronchospastic conditions.
• Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly as it can cause a sudden rise in blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Drug Interactions: Carloc 25 Tablet can interact with other medicines, including certain blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors), heart rhythm medicines (e.g., digoxin, diltiazem, verapamil), and diabetes medicines (e.g., insulin, metformin), potentially requiring close monitoring and dose adjustments.

Storage: Store below 25°C or between 10ºC to 30ºC in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and heat. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

What is CARLOC 25 TABLET used for?

CARLOC 25 TABLET (Carvedilol 25mg) is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart-related chest pain (angina), and heart failure. It also helps improve heart function after a heart attack and reduces the risk of future heart attacks and strokes.

How does CARLOC 25 TABLET work?

CARLOC 25 TABLET contains Carvedilol, which is an alpha and beta-blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate, thereby reducing the force of heart contractions. This action makes it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body and lowers blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for CARLOC 25 TABLET?

The dosage of CARLOC 25 TABLET must be individualized and determined by your doctor. It is typically taken with food. For heart failure, a common starting dose is 3.125 mg twice daily for two weeks, which may be gradually increased. For hypertension, a recommended starting dose is 6.25 mg twice daily, which can be increased to 12.5 mg twice daily, and then to 25 mg twice daily if needed. The total daily dose for hypertension should generally not exceed 50 mg. It is crucial not to adjust your dose or stop the medication without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of CARLOC 25 TABLET?

Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, fatigue, breathlessness, low blood pressure, diarrhea, increased blood sugar levels, weight gain, decreased heart rate, and dry eyes. More serious side effects, though rare, can include fainting, significant shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, swelling of arms, hands, feet, or legs, chest pain, slow or irregular heartbeat, rash, hives, itching, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. If you experience any severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Is CARLOC 25 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

CARLOC 25 TABLET may be unsafe to use during pregnancy, as animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. You should consult your doctor if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning a pregnancy. Carvedilol, the active ingredient, passes into breast milk, so it is generally advised to avoid breastfeeding while on this medicine. Your doctor may suggest alternative therapy.

Can CARLOC 25 TABLET be taken with other medications?

CARLOC 25 TABLET can interact with several medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking. Notable interactions include:

• Other blood pressure medicines: ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, ramipril), calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil), and other beta-blockers may lead to excessive blood pressure lowering or dangerously slow heart rate.
• Heart rhythm medicines: Digoxin and amiodarone can increase the risk of a slow heart rate.
• Diabetes medicines: Insulin or oral hypoglycemics (e.g., metformin) may have their blood-sugar-reducing effects enhanced, requiring close monitoring of blood glucose levels.
• Other medications: Antidepressants, cimetidine, erythromycin, and corticosteroids may also interact.

What precautions should be taken while taking CARLOC 25 TABLET?

• Alcohol: It is unsafe to consume alcohol with CARLOC 25 TABLET as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure and worsen side effects like dizziness.
• Driving and Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking CARLOC 25 TABLET suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it can cause a sudden rise in blood pressure, potentially increasing the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dosage if discontinuation is necessary.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney problems, asthma or other respiratory conditions, diabetes, thyroid disorders, severely low blood pressure, or peripheral vascular disease.

What happens if a dose of CARLOC 25 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of CARLOC 25 TABLET, 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 make up for a missed one.

How should CARLOC 25 TABLET be stored?

CARLOC 25 TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, typically below 25°C or 30°C. Keep it protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Always ensure it is kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets.