Carvedilol

[cavi]

Hi All Anyone on this medication for small Varices and Portal Hypertention if so what dose do you take and any side affects lightheaded dizziness if so how long do the side affects last .

Many Thanks Take Care x

[Agent_R]

Hi Cavi, I have taken Carvedilol for several years now - the dose was gradually increased to 12.5mg daily, which helped with the severity of the initial symptoms. Now completely used to it and don't really notice any side effects. And I have not had any further incidents of bleeding varices, so it is obviously doing its job. My advice is to take it at night which means that at least you're lying down if you do feel a bit lightheaded. Good luck x

[crundalite in reply to Agent_R]

Hello Cavi

I have been on Carvedilol for about 6 weeks now for the same reasons as yourself. I am up to 9:25mgs daily at present which is to be increased to 12:5mgs in about 2 weeks time. I have found that I become breathless on mild exertion which is upsetting as up until March this year,when i commenced takingPropanolol (now stopped) I was going to the Gym 3xweekly. I do experience some lightheadedness and increased stomach acidity. I have therefore statred taking it at night which helps to some extent with both of these problems. The breathlessness is difficult to overcome. I have had one lot of varices, Size 2, banded prophylactically, and am due to have more done at the end of the month. I am hoping to stop Carvedilol following that but don't know yet what the consequences of that could be. I am 68, was diagnosed some 20 years ago and want to enjoy the rest of my life-not have it diminished by medication.