Key takeaways
Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) and carvedilol (Coreg) are both used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different medication classes and have different uses and side effects. Nifedipine ER is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure and treat chest pain (angina). It is taken once daily in its extended release form and is available in a generic form. Common side effects include swelling in the legs, dizziness, and headaches. Carvedilol, on the other hand, is a beta blocker that not only lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels but also slows down the heart rate. It is used to manage heart failure and reduce the risk of death after a heart attack. Carvedilol is taken twice daily in its immediate-release form or once daily in its extended-release form, and it is also available as a generic. Common side effects include dizziness, tiredness, and diarrhea. Unlike nifedipine, carvedilol should be taken with food to reduce the risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure. Additionally, carvedilol can hide symptoms of low blood sugar and should be used cautiously in people with asthma or other breathing problems.
