Carvedilol tips from pharmacists

• Carvedilol can cause low blood pressure and dizziness when rising from a lying or sitting position to standing. Taking carvedilol with food can lower the chances of this side effect occurring. Make sure you stand up slowly to reduce the risk of falls, especially when you first start taking this medicine.

• The dizziness caused by carvedilol can put you at risk of accidents and injuries. Do not drive a motor vehicle or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

• If you have diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider about how often you should monitor blood sugar levels. Carvedilol can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar levels.

• Do not stop taking carvedilol suddenly. This can cause problems like irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, chest pain, and an increased risk of a heart attack.