CORGARD (NADOLOL)

Why is Corgard Prescribed?

Corgard is classified as a beta blocker drug that your doctor may prescribe to treat the pain of angina or to manage your hypertension so it won’t pose other health risks. Corgard or generic Nadolol is not a cure for high blood pressure or angina, but you can find relief from chest pain and reduce your risk of a heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease from untreated hypertension. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Corgard Works as a Beta Blocker

Corgard works by changing the way your body responds to adrenaline, a stress hormone responsible for preparing your body for a “fight or flight” situation. This includes increasing your heart rate and blood pressure. By blocking this effect, the number of your heartbeats is decreased and the force of each beat reduced so your blood pressure is lowered and your chest pains from angina are relieved.

Conditions Treated by Corgard

The most common cause of angina is coronary atherosclerosis, which is the thickening of the arteries that supply your heart with blood, oxygen, and nutrients. As you become active or when you exercise, your blood flow is restricted and your heart does not receive a sufficient blood supply. The stress your arteries are under cause the pain and tightness in your chest. This pain should not be ignored as it can be warning that you are at risk for a heart attack.

Eating a healthy diet, losing weight, quit smoking, and finding a way to reduce your stress can help lower your blood pressure and relieve angina attacks. A physical exam may be the only way of learning that you have high blood pressure as it has few symptoms that would alert you until you possible have a heart attack or stroke.

Before You Take Corgard

Tell your doctor before starting Corgard if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast-feeding as this drug may not be safe for unborn or nursing babies. Discuss your medical history with your doctor so it can be determined if Corgard is the right medicine for your situation.

Precautions for Corgard

Be sure that your doctor is made aware of other Rx drugs, OTC meds, and any herbal or homeopathic remedies and vitamin supplements. Combining any of these with Corgard may cause unintended side effects or change how Corgard will work in your body.

Until you know how Corgard will affect you, use caution operating a vehicle or participating in any activities that require you to be alert and in control of your body. All medications should be stored out of children’s reach and sight and never share them with anyone else.

Possible Side Effects of Corgard

• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Weakness
• Sudden weight gain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea