Livacor
Generic Name
Carvedilol
Manufacturer
ACI Limited
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| livacor 150 mg tablet | ৳ 12.00 | ৳ 120.00 |
| livacor 300 mg tablet | ৳ 27.60 | ৳ 276.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Livacor (Carvedilol) is a non-selective beta-blocker and alpha-blocker used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and left ventricular dysfunction following a heart attack.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For hypertension: Initial 6.25 mg BID, target 12.5-25 mg BID. For heart failure: Initial 3.125 mg BID, titrate slowly up to 25 mg BID (or 50 mg BID for patients >85 kg).
Elderly
Similar to adults, but cautious titration is recommended.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Oral, with food to minimize orthostatic hypotension.
Mechanism of Action
Carvedilol blocks beta-1, beta-2, and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. Beta-blockade reduces heart rate and myocardial contractility. Alpha-1 blockade causes vasodilation, leading to a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antihypertensive effect usually within 1 hour, full effect may take several weeks.
Excretion
Primarily via bile into feces (approx. 60-70%), some renal excretion (16%).
Half life
Approximately 7-10 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and extensive absorption (approx. 25-35% bioavailability due to first-pass metabolism). Peak plasma concentrations within 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Extensive hepatic metabolism, primarily by CYP2D6 and CYP2C9.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Bronchial asthma or related bronchospastic conditions
- Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Decompensated heart failure requiring intravenous inotropes
- Severe bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, second or third-degree AV block
- Cardiogenic shock
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Known hypersensitivity to carvedilol or any component.
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
Increased digoxin levels.
Cimetidine
Increased carvedilol levels.
Rifampicin
Decreased carvedilol levels.
Insulin/oral hypoglycemics
Potentiates hypoglycemic effect, masks symptoms of hypoglycemia.
Calcium channel blockers (e.g., Verapamil, Diltiazem)
Risk of AV block and bradycardia.
CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, Quinidine)
Increased carvedilol levels.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe hypotension, bradycardia, cardiac insufficiency, cardiogenic shock, and cardiac arrest. Bronchospasm, vomiting, and generalized seizures may also occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Excreted in breast milk, avoid during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years, refer to packaging for exact expiry date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities worldwide (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic versions available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in clinical trials for hypertension, heart failure (e.g., COPERNICUS trial), and post-MI left ventricular dysfunction. Demonstrated significant reductions in mortality and morbidity.
Doctor Notes
- Titrate dose slowly, especially in heart failure patients, to avoid worsening symptoms.
- Monitor for bradycardia, hypotension, and symptoms of heart failure exacerbation.
- Educate patients on not discontinuing treatment abruptly.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed, do not stop abruptly.
- Take with food.
- Report any dizziness, slow heartbeat, or difficulty breathing.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Missed Dose Advice
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness or fatigue, especially at the start of treatment or dose increases. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.