Beta Blockers changed. Worried about side effects

[thelad73]

I have Cirrhosis and heart failure. My Hepatology Consultant has spoken to my Cardiology Consultant and agreed I should move from Bisoprolol beta blockers to Carvedilol.

The problem is I've read on the nhs web site that these should not be prescribed to people with liver disease. The side effects can be black tar like poo and yellowing of eyes and skin. These are Cirrhosis symptoms, how will I know if these are side effects or symptoms of my liver. I have no cirrhosis symptoms at all so worried I won't know what is what.

cheers

[BritishLiverTrust6 Moderator British Liver Trust]

Dear thelad73If you are in the UK and would find it useful to talk things over, our nurse-led helpline is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 3pm on 0800 652 7330 (excluding bank holidays)

Best wishes

British Liver Trust

[AyrshireK]

Carvedilol is one of the main beta blockers actually prescribed to cirrhosis patients who have portal hypertension.

[Cat-B]

I’m on cardovil for my portal hypertension which it is controlled really well, I no longer have varicies.

[oap74]

I was put on Carvedilol after my Barrett’s burst to be taken in a smaller doses twice a day, haven’t had any problems at all if anything feel better for it. I have cirrhosis and liver cancer. The time to worry about your poo is if it becomes a black sticky tar like, according to my consultant. All the best

[theoldboiler]

I am 60 with cirrhosis. I have been on Carvedilol for several years for portal hypertension and have had no ill effects at all. It is a significant daily drug for preventing varices

[Dogbot]

I think reading all the replies you get the idea, don’t google listen to your consultant’s.Stay Safe All 🐶🌈

Dave

[redpoint72]

hello there. I was put on carvedilol 3 years ago for portal hypertension.....i do still have several small varicies. but the consultant wasn't to concerned at my last endoscopy.take care,chris

[thelad73]

Thanks for all the replies. I feel much much better knowing it's been prescribed to other people with the condition👍

[thelad73]

Just a bit of info, I work for the NHS in the I.T dept and Friday had a call from a hepatology consultant. I fixed his problem then asked him about the meds, he put my mind at ease as he basically said everything that has been said on here.

[x007jcp]

Hi - ditto everything said above - no side effects for me. Took twice daily BP and heart rate readings for two weeks before starting carvedilol and for a month afterwards - definite improvement in both metrics. I also read the warning you cite and had the same concerns before starting, so you're right to be cautious. I was prescribed it by my consultant and double-checked with my GP.

[Chez2706]

Agree with everything being said. I have cirrhosis and have been on Carvedilol for just over a year with no problems. At my last consultant appointment I was told I could now come off them. But I would have been happy to stay on them if it was needed.

[thelad73]

I'm now using them, no dizziness or side effects. Although during the heat wave using my old beta blockers I fainted and twisted my ankle😁 3 weeks unable to walk.