Key takeaways
Propranolol (Inderal LA, Inderal XL, Innopran XL) and carvedilol (Coreg, Coreg CR) are both beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure, but they have some key differences. Propranolol is a non-selective beta blocker, while carvedilol is both an alpha and beta blocker. This means carvedilol not only slows your heart rate but also relaxes your blood vessels more effectively. Propranolol is used for a wider range of conditions, including migraines, tremors, and performance anxiety, whereas carvedilol is specifically used for high blood pressure and reducing the risk of death after a heart attack. You can take propranolol in immediate-release (IR) or extended-release (ER) forms, with the IR version needing multiple doses a day, while carvedilol also comes in both forms but typically requires fewer doses. Both medications can cause dizziness and tiredness. Additionally, both should be taken with caution if you have asthma or diabetes, as they can hide symptoms of low blood sugar and cause breathing issues.
