Drug interactions
Carvedilol + Pirbuterol
Severity: Major
Carvedilol and Pirbuterol: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Carvedilol is a nonselective beta-blocker and alpha-1 blocker that directly opposes the effects of pirbuterol. It can cause bronchospasm and markedly reduce the bronchodilator response in patients with asthma or COPD.
What this interaction means in plain words
Carvedilol and Pirbuterol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Nonselective beta-2 receptor blockade antagonizes the beta-2 agonist effect of pirbuterol.
What to do
Avoid the combination in asthma and generally in bronchospastic disease, using a cardioselective agent if a beta-blocker is required. If it cannot be avoided, monitor respiratory function closely.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Carvedilol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Carvedilol with Pirbuterol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Carvedilol and Pirbuterol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Carvedilol is a nonselective beta-blocker and alpha-1 blocker that directly opposes the effects of pirbuterol. It can cause bronchospasm and markedly reduce the bronchodilator response in patients with asthma or COPD.
How serious is the interaction between Carvedilol and Pirbuterol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination in asthma and generally in bronchospastic disease, using a cardioselective agent if a beta-blocker is required. If it cannot be avoided, monitor respiratory function closely.
What other medicines interact with Carvedilol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Carvedilol with, for example, Amifostine, Amiodarone, Arformoterol. The full list is on the Carvedilol page.
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