Cardivas CR 20 is a prescription medicine categorized under the class of drugs known as beta blockers. Your doctor may prescribe Cardivas CR to treat the patient of:

   — Hypertension (high blood pressure)

   — Who had a heart attack that worsens the heart’s function

   — Certain types of heart failure  

Cardivas CR contains the active ingredient Carvedilol, which causes the relaxation of blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily to the heart. Lowering blood pressure helps prevent future heart complications such as heart attack and stroke.

Cardivas CR is available as once-a-day administration as extended-release oral tablets. Take Cardivas CR tablets exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Take the pill one time each day with food. You must take the tablet only one time each day. To reduce the risk of side effects, your doctor might begin the treatment with the lowest dose. Swallow the tablet with a glass full of water. Do not discontinue treatment or change the dose without consulting the doctor.    

Patients with coronary artery disease who are being treated with Carvedilol tablets should be advised against abrupt discontinuation of the medicine.   Worsening of angina, myocardial infarction, and ventricular arrhythmias have been reported in angina patients following the sudden treatment discontinuation.

Use of Cardivas CR 20 mg is strictly prohibited if you have:

   — Asthma or breathing issues

   — Severe heart failure and certain injectable drugs that help support circulation

   — Liver impairment

   — Slow heartbeat or certain conditions that cause your heart to skip a beat.

   — Severe allergic reactions

Let your doctor know of all medical conditions, including if you have diabetes, problems with blood flow, lung problems, and pheochromocytoma. Before taking Cardivas, you should also tell your doctor if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Moreover, women should not breastfeed while using Cardivas CR tablets. Tell your doctor about all your medicines, including prescription and nonprescription drugs (vitamins and herbal preparations). Carvedilol and other medications can affect each other and cause serious adverse effects. So, inform your doctor about all your medications before taking Cardivas CR.     

Carvedilol can cause you to feel dizzy or faint. Avoid driving, using machinery, or doing anything that requires your attention.   

Common side effects of Cardivas CR include diarrhoea, weight gain, tiredness and shortness of breath. If you wear contact lenses, you may have fewer tears or develop a dry problem that can become bothersome. Speak to your doctor if you have any side effects that bother you or do not resolve within a few days. Serious side effects of the medicine include chest pain, slow heartbeat, worsening heart failure, changes in blood sugar, and worsening of severe allergic reactions. Inform your doctor immediately if you develop any serious side effects.