Carvedilol

Beta blocker
PRESCRIPTION ONLY IN INDIA

Carvedilol is a beta blocker found in 3 medicines sold in India, such as Cardivas 6.25, Cardivas 3.125, Cardivas 12.5. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.

What it is used for

Treats heart failure and high blood pressure.

How it works

A beta blocker that also widens blood vessels; used in heart failure and high blood pressure.

How to take it

Usually 3.125 to 25 mg twice a day with food; the dose is increased slowly.

Common side effects

  • Tiredness
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Slow pulse
  • Dizziness
  • Vivid dreams

Get medical help straight away if

  • Breathlessness or wheeze
  • Very slow pulse or fainting
  • Swollen ankles or rapid weight gain

Be careful

Do not stop suddenly; can cause dizziness when standing.

Other medicines and interactions

Do not stop suddenly (it can trigger chest pain or a heart attack); taper as advised. Verapamil and diltiazem together can slow the heart dangerously. Can hide low sugar warning signs in diabetes.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Some beta blockers (such as labetalol) are used in pregnancy; ask your doctor whether yours is suitable. Babies may need watching for slow heart rate or low sugar after birth.

Brands of Carvedilol (3)

Cardivas 12.5Cardivas 3.125Cardivas 6.25

Common questions

What is Carvedilol used for?

Treats heart failure and high blood pressure.

How does Carvedilol work?

A beta blocker that also widens blood vessels; used in heart failure and high blood pressure.

How should I take Carvedilol?

Usually 3.125 to 25 mg twice a day with food; the dose is increased slowly.

What are the side effects of Carvedilol?

Common: Tiredness, cold hands and feet, slow pulse, dizziness, vivid dreams. Get help straight away for: Breathlessness or wheeze, very slow pulse or fainting, swollen ankles or rapid weight gain.

Does Carvedilol interact with other medicines?

Do not stop suddenly (it can trigger chest pain or a heart attack); taper as advised. Verapamil and diltiazem together can slow the heart dangerously. Can hide low sugar warning signs in diabetes.

Is Carvedilol safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Some beta blockers (such as labetalol) are used in pregnancy; ask your doctor whether yours is suitable. Babies may need watching for slow heart rate or low sugar after birth.

Does Carvedilol need a prescription in India?

Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.

Which brands contain Carvedilol?

Cardivas 12.5, Cardivas 3.125, Cardivas 6.25.

Sources and further reading

NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.

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For information only, not medical advice. This page is a plain-language summary written from standard prescribing information and the public guides linked below. Brands sometimes change their formula, so always check the composition printed on the pack. Doses here are typical adult doses; yours may differ. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without your doctor or pharmacist, and keep all medicines away from children. In an emergency, call 112 (India) or your local emergency number.