Key takeaways
Carvedilol (Coreg) and labetalol (formerly branded as Trandate) are both beta blockers used to lower blood pressure, but they have some differences. Carvedilol is also used to manage heart failure and reduce the risk of death after a heart attack, while labetalol is primarily used for high blood pressure. Carvedilol comes in both immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules, whereas labetalol is only available in immediate-release form. You need to take carvedilol with food, but labetalol can be taken with or without food as long as you are consistent. Carvedilol can cause weight gain and dry eyes, while labetalol can cause a false-positive urine test for amphetamines. Both medications can make you dizzy and hide symptoms of low blood sugar, but labetalol is noted for causing less of a drop in heart rate compared to other beta blockers.
