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Carvedilol

Prescription
Non-Selective Beta/Alpha-1 Adrenergic Blocker
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
3 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Non-selective beta-blocker with alpha-1 blocking activity providing vasodilation. Also has antioxidant properties. Reduces heart rate, blood pressure, and afterload without reflex tachycardia.

At a glance

Class
Non-Selective Beta/Alpha-1 Adrenergic Blocker
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for dilated cardiomyopathy, chronic heart failure (adjunct to ACE inhibitor
Dose
0.2–0.4 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h
🐈

Cat

Limited feline data
Dose
0.1–0.2 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q12h

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Heart rate and rhythmBlood pressureEchocardiogram q3–6 monthsRespiratory rate

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Verapamil
contraindicated
Non-selective beta-blocker + non-DHP calcium channel blocker: synergistic negative inotropy causing severe bradycardia, AV block, or cardiac arrest.
Management: NEVER combine, especially IV. Oral combination only under specialist supervision.

Major — 1

Diltiazem
major
Non-selective beta-blocker + non-DHP calcium channel blocker: additive negative inotropy, chronotropy, dromotropy. Risk of severe bradycardia and heart failure decompensation.
Management: Avoid concurrent use or use under cardiologist supervision with ECG monitoring.

Moderate — 1

Insulin, Glargine
moderate
Beta-blockers mask hypoglycemia symptoms (tremors, tachycardia) and prolong hypoglycemic episodes by blocking glycogenolysis (beta-2 mediated). Non-selective beta-blockers (carvedilol) worse than cardioselective.
Management: Use with caution in diabetics. Monitor glucose more frequently. Educate owners about atypical hypoglycemia signs.

Brands

Other markets

Coreg

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Carvedilol?
Carvedilol is a non-selective beta/alpha-1 adrenergic blocker used in pets. Non-selective beta-blocker with alpha-1 blocking activity providing vasodilation. Also has antioxidant properties. Reduces heart rate, blood pressure, and afterload without reflex tachycardia.
›What is Carvedilol used for in pets?
Carvedilol is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for dilated cardiomyopathy, chronic heart failure (adjunct to ACE inhibitor; Limited feline data.
›What is the Carvedilol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Carvedilol is typically dosed as follows — Used for dilated cardiomyopathy, chronic heart failure (adjunct to ACE inhibitor: 0.2–0.4 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Carvedilol dose for cats?
For cats, Carvedilol is typically dosed as follows — Limited feline data: 0.1–0.2 mg/kg PO q12h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Carvedilol need a prescription?
Yes. Carvedilol is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →