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Vivacor is a preparation containing the active substance carvedilol, a drug from the group of beta-blockers. Means of this type are used mainly in the case of diseases related to the failure of the heart muscle and the malfunction of the circulatory system. How does Vivacor work and what are the possible side effects while taking the drug?
Producent leku: EGIS Pharmaceuticals PLC
Form, dose, packaging: tablets; (6,25; 12,5; 25) mg; (30; 60) pcs.
Availability category: Rp – prescription drug
Active substance: carvedilol
Vivacor – action
The carvedilol contained in Vivacor is a non-selective drug in relation to adrenergic receptors (structures responsible for physiological processes). This means that it will have an effect on both alpha and beta-adrenergic receptors. The drug works by blocking the receptors in the blood vessels and in the heart. Inhibition of these structures leads to the expansion of blood vessels (due to the blockade of alpha 1-adrenergic receptors and slows down the heart rate (blockade of beta-adrenergic receptors). As a result of this mechanism of action, Vivacor reduces the need for oxygen in the heart. the activity of the so-called RAA system (renin-angiotensin-aldosterone), which is responsible for the increase in blood pressure, is inhibited.During treatment with Vivacor, the normal renal and peripheral blood flow does not change, so patients do not complain about the phenomenon of cold extremities very much. often observed with the use of beta-blockers Carvedilol has antiproliferative and antioxidant properties.
Vivacor – indications for use
Due to the blockade of alpha 1-adrenergic and beta-adrenergic receptors and the effect it produces, Vivacor is an effective drug in patients suffering from angina pectoris – it is then used prophylactically, as it prevents coronary pain. In addition, carvedilol is indicated for the treatment of hypertension as well as chronic heart failure, usually in combination with other drugs (e.g. angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics or digoxin).
Vivacor – dosage
The dosage of carvedilol depends on the type of ailments. It is recommended that in case of heart failure, initial treatment is carried out in a hospital setting under the supervision of a cardiologist. Each time the therapeutic dose is determined by a specialist. It is assumed that the initial dose of Vivacor therapy should be 3,125 mg twice daily for 14 days. If no side effects occur, the dosage can be gradually increased. Maintenance doses are usually doubled every 14 days until a dose of 25 mg carvedilol is taken twice daily. The dosage, however, depends on the type of ailments suffered by the patient. The correct use of the drug consists in taking Vivacor twice within 24 hours, i.e. every 12 hours. Carvedilol should be taken regularly at fixed times.
Vivacor – contraindications
Vivacor should not be used by patients with:
- obstructive airway disease,
- severe liver disease,
- significant fluid retention,
- hypersensitivity to the active substance,
- intolerance to drugs from the group of beta-blockers,
- atrioventricular block,
- decreased heart rate (bradycardia),
- pulmonary hypertension,
- arterial hypotension.
Vivacor – warnings
When taking Vivacor, special precautions should be taken when combining the drug with antidiabetic agents, as carvedilol may mask the symptoms of hypoglycaemia (glucose concentration below 3,9 mmol / l). This situation can make glucose control difficult in diabetics. The drug should be used with caution in people struggling with impaired kidney function.
Vivacor – interactions
The carvedilol in Vivacor interacts with many drugs that have different mechanisms of action. These include: antiarrhythmic drugs: verapamil, amiodarone, diltiazem (ECG changes, heart failure, arrhythmias have been observed); cardiac glycosides: digoxin (the effect of digoxin is multiplied), nitrates, tricyclic antidepressants, phenothiazines, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antidiabetic drugs. Vivacor should not be combined with alcohol.
The list of interactions of carvedilol with other drugs is long, therefore, before starting therapy, provide your doctor with detailed information about the drugs you are taking, and also read the leaflet or consult your pharmacist.
Vivacor – side effects
The most common side effects include: weight gain, increased total cholesterol, hyper- or hypoglycaemia, headache and dizziness, visual disturbances, lacrimation, hypotension, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea.