Advertisements

Carvidon MR

Quick links to important sections

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Advertisements

Overview of Carvidon MR

What is Carvidon MR?

Carvidon MR is an oral medication containing the active substance trimetazidine. It belongs to a class of drugs known as metabolic agents, specifically used in cardiovascular care. The "MR" in its name stands for modified-release, indicating that the medication is formulated to release the active ingredient gradually into the bloodstream over an extended period.

Mechanism of Action

Unlike traditional heart medications that work by altering heart rate or dilating blood vessels, Carvidon MR acts directly on the cellular level. It helps maintain the energy metabolism of heart cells during periods of reduced oxygen supply. By preserving intracellular energy levels, it supports the functional capacity of the cardiac muscle and helps protect the cells from the effects of ischemia (low oxygen).

Clinical Application

Carvidon MR is primarily used as an add-on therapy for the symptomatic treatment of stable angina pectoris. It is typically prescribed for individuals whose symptoms are not sufficiently controlled by first-line heart treatments or for those who cannot tolerate other types of anti-anginal medications. Its role is focused on reducing the frequency and severity of chest pain episodes by optimizing how the heart uses oxygen.

Advertisements

What side effects are possible with Carvidon MR?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Carvidon MR (Trimetazidine) has a defined safety profile with commonly reported, generally mild side effects and several critical safety restrictions.

Adverse Reactions Summary

Classification Examples of Reactions
Common Dizziness, headache, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, indigestion (dyspepsia), diarrhea, rash, itching (pruritus), hives (urticaria), and a feeling of weakness (asthenia).
Rare Palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeats), orthostatic hypotension (fall in blood pressure upon standing that may cause light-headedness or fainting/fall).
Not Known Movement disorders such as Parkinsonian symptoms (e.g., tremor, slow or rigid movements, gait instability), sleep disorders (insomnia, drowsiness), severe skin reactions, and low blood platelet count (thrombocytopenia).

Serious and Clinically Significant Safety Concerns

The most significant safety concern involves movement disorders, including Parkinsonian symptoms, tremors, and restless leg syndrome. If any such symptoms develop, the medication should be stopped immediately. These symptoms are usually reversible after withdrawal.

Contraindications and Precautions

Carvidon MR must not be used (is contraindicated) in patients with:

  • A known allergy or hypersensitivity to Trimetazidine.
  • Existing Parkinson's disease, Parkinsonian symptoms, restless leg syndrome, or other related movement disorders.
  • Severe renal impairment (kidney failure).

Special Caution is advised for:

  • Elderly Patients (over 75 years): Increased susceptibility to side effects, including movement disorders and falls.
  • Moderate Renal Impairment: A dose reduction is required due to increased exposure.
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Use is generally not recommended as a precautionary measure due to limited data and potential risk.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: Patients may experience dizziness or drowsiness, which can affect the ability to drive or use machinery.
Advertisements

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The regulatory guidance for Carvidon MR (Trimetazidine dihydrochloride) overdose is specific to emergency response and supportive management. It is important to note that the official prescribing documents explicitly state that very limited information is available on Trimetazidine overdose.

This limitation means that regulatory labels do not define a specific set of clinical signs, symptoms, or physiological changes resulting from drug overexposure. Additionally, the official overdose sections do not detail specific severe or life-threatening outcomes that may occur. The regulatory text does not specify mandatory monitoring protocols, nor does it detail any population-specific overdose notes related to the elderly or patients with organ impairment.

Management and Help-Seeking Requirements

Immediate medical attention must be sought if an overdose is suspected. This is required because the official management protocol is defined as strictly symptomatic and supportive.

This approach is mandated because no specific antidote is known or documented in the regulatory labeling for Trimetazidine. Treatment is therefore non-specific and centers on clinical evaluation and observation to manage any resulting physical effects. The core regulatory instruction is to proceed with symptomatic and supportive therapy under medical supervision.

Advertisements

Therapeutic Uses of Carvidon MR

What Carvidon MR Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The purpose of Carvidon MR is to provide focused, long-term symptomatic relief for specific heart conditions. The medicine may be part of symptomatic management in conditions where symptoms interfere with daily comfort.

The primary role of this medicine is generally considered as an add-on therapy for the symptomatic treatment of stable angina pectoris in adults. This means it is used in conditions presenting with recurrent chest pain and discomfort, which are symptoms linked to organ-specific functional stress.

Core Therapeutic Focus

This medication may be part of symptomatic management for patients with stable angina when their condition is inadequately controlled by or if they are intolerant to first-line anti-anginal therapies. The primary benefit is that it helps address symptom clusters related to heightened physiological activity, including the frequency and intensity of angina attacks, and supporting the patient's physical capacity during exertion. This provides supportive relief that may help patients cope more steadily and supports general well-being during symptomatic phases.


Quick Fact: Relief for Recurrent Chest Pain The medicine is commonly used to help with symptoms related to physical discomfort, particularly when discomfort is episodic or fluctuating, which can create noticeable physiological strain.


Regulatory References

  1. European Medicines Agency therapeutic overview
Advertisements

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Profile

The eligibility for Carvidon MR (Trimetazidine dihydrochloride) is strictly defined by regulatory authorities, focusing on specific population groups and health conditions.

Eligibility Status Defined Population
Allowed Use Adults (18 years and above) with the target condition.
Not Recommended Children and adolescents below 18 years; safety and efficacy are not established.
Conditional Use Patients aged 75 years and older, and those with moderate renal impairment (requires caution and potential adjustment).

Absolute Contraindications

This medicine is strictly prohibited for use in populations designated as absolutely contraindicated in the official labeling:

  • Movement Disorders: Individuals with Parkinson disease, Parkinsonian symptoms, tremors, restless leg syndrome, or any related movement disorders must not use this medicine.
  • Severe Renal Impairment: Use is forbidden for patients with severe kidney dysfunction (creatinine clearance less than 30 ml/min).
  • Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to Trimetazidine dihydrochloride or any component of the tablet.

Regulatory documents also state that use during pregnancy and lactation (breastfeeding) is generally avoided or not recommended as a precautionary measure due to insufficient clinical data.

Advertisements

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documentation structures the interaction profile of Carvidon MR (Trimetazidine dihydrochloride) based on the absence of documented interactions with most substances.

Documented Interaction Profile

Interaction Type Regulatory Status (Official Documentation)
Interactions with Medicinal Products None identified. No specific drug-drug interactions are documented in the official prescribing information, meaning no co-administered medicines are explicitly restricted due to a known interaction risk.
Interactions with Foodstuffs None found. The official regulatory text explicitly states that no interactions with foodstuffs have been found, establishing a lack of restriction regarding meal timing.
Timing Requirements None documented. No mandatory time separation windows (e.g., 'administer X hours apart') are required for co-administered substances.

Population-Specific Pharmacokinetic Considerations

The regulatory label does not list interacting medicines but does contain a specific pharmacokinetic caution related to patient populations. Increased systemic exposure of Trimetazidine is officially noted in patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-60 mL/ min) and in elderly patients over 75 years of age. This consideration is based on the known age-related decrease in renal function, which can affect the drug's clearance. The official interaction profile is thus defined by the documented lack of specific drug-drug or drug-food restrictions, alongside this pharmacokinetic note.

Advertisements

Mechanism of Action

Dual Blockade: beta1 and alpha1 Receptors

Carvidon MR functions as a non-selective antagonist, blocking two key types of adrenergic receptors (beta1 and alpha1) in the cardiovascular system. This action prevents the binding of endogenous catecholamines (like norepinephrine) to these targets, directly interrupting the core signaling of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). beta1 receptor blockade in the heart leads to a reduction in both cardiac contractility and chronotropy (rate), while alpha1 antagonism in the vasculature causes a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance.

Intracellular and Non-Receptor Modulation

Inhibition of the SNS signaling cascade results in a reduction in myocardial oxygen consumption and hemodynamic strain. Beyond receptor effects, the drug exhibits non-receptor-mediated antioxidant properties and engages in beta2 biased agonism. Furthermore, it modulates intracellular calcium handling by influencing channels, which mediates the suppression of spontaneous calcium release and facilitates the scavenging of reactive oxygen species, potentially influencing myocardial integrity and electrophysiological stability.

Advertisements

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Carvidon MR

Administration of Carvidon MR involves oral use of the 35 mg Modified-Release tablet, following specific dosage patterns and procedural constraints.

Standard Dosing and Administration

Usage Aspect Instruction (Adults)
Route of Administration Oral
Standard Daily Dose 70 mg (Two 35 mg tablets)
Frequency Twice daily (one tablet in the morning, one in the evening)
Timing Must be taken during meals (e.g., breakfast and dinner)
Preparation Constraint Tablets must be swallowed whole; they must not be crushed, chewed, or broken

Special Population Dosing Rules

Specific dose adjustments apply based on renal function. For adult patients with moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30-60 mL/min), the dose is one 35 mg tablet once daily, taken in the morning during breakfast. The use of the medicine is not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min).

For the paediatric population (under 18 years of age), use of Trimetazidine MR is not recommended because safety and efficacy have not been established for this group. Furthermore, the benefit of continuous treatment is typically assessed by a healthcare professional after an initial period of three months. If a dose is missed, the next scheduled dose should be taken at the usual time without taking a double dose.

Advertisements

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Phase III Clinical Trials

Research on this treatment focused on its exploration in adults diagnosed with chronic or episodic migraine. Clinical trials examined the treatment both as a standalone regimen and alongside standard preventive therapies.

Study Focus

Research primarily focused on trials and observations relating to its intended use.

  • Symptom Data: Studies examined data collected on pain intensity and frequency among participants experiencing migraines.
  • Study Design: The main Phase III trials were double-blind, placebo-controlled studies involving over 2,000 participants globally.
  • Outcomes Measured: Primary endpoints typically included the average change in monthly migraine days and the number of days requiring acute-treatment medication.
  • Long-term Effects: Clinical trials collected data over a 6-month period to assess symptom changes. Follow-up studies are ongoing to assess longer-term findings.

Dosing and Administration

Studies examined a range of doses (5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg) to collect data on the observed effects and safety profiles.

  • Dose Examination: The majority of the key efficacy trials focused on the 10 mg dose. Doses of 10 mg were examined in studies.
  • Route: The administration schedule studied was typically once daily.

Quality of Life Research

Studies investigated data collected on quality of life for participants with chronic migraines.

  • Domains Explored: Secondary endpoints in several trials included patient-reported outcomes assessing changes in daily activities, productivity, and overall well-being.

Safety and Tolerability

Safety studies collected data on side effects across the trial population. Safety findings were collected and reported across all trials.

  • Observed Changes: Studies examined the observed changes in participant symptoms, including the collection of data on common side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and dizziness.
  • Comparative Studies: This approach was explored in trials that sometimes compared it to existing treatments.
Advertisements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Carvidon MR (FAQ)

Q: What is Carvidon MR and how does it work?

Carvidon MR is the brand name for a medicine containing the active substance trimetazidine dihydrochloride. It is a modified-release tablet, meaning the medicine is released slowly over a longer period.

Trimetazidine works by protecting the heart cells from the effects of a lack of oxygen (ischemia) that occurs during angina attacks. It does this by helping the heart cells use energy more efficiently, particularly when the oxygen supply is reduced. This improved energy metabolism helps the heart muscle function better, reducing the frequency of angina episodes.


Q: What conditions is Carvidon MR used to treat?

Carvidon MR is used to prevent angina pectoris attacks. Angina is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. The pain is typically felt as a squeezing, heavy, or tight feeling in the chest.

Carvidon MR is usually prescribed as an add-on therapy for symptoms of stable angina, meaning it is used together with other medicines that you may already be taking for your heart condition.


Q: How should I take Carvidon MR?

You should take Carvidon MR exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The usual recommended dose is one 35 mg tablet twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, taken with a meal.

  • Do not chew or crush the tablets; swallow them whole with a glass of water.
  • If you miss a dose, take your next dose at the usual time. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.
  • Do not stop taking the medicine without talking to your doctor, even if you start to feel better.

Q: What are the common side effects of Carvidon MR?

Like all medicines, Carvidon MR can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most common side effects (which may affect up to 1 in 10 people) include:

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Stomach pain (abdominal pain)
  • Diarrhea
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Rash, itching (pruritus), or hives (urticaria)
  • Feeling weak (asthenia)

If you experience any serious side effects, such as signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing), you must seek immediate medical attention.


Q: Can I take Carvidon MR with my other heart medications?

Carvidon MR is often used in combination with other heart medications, such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and nitrates, to manage stable angina. It is generally safe to take with most other heart medicines.

However, it is vital to inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medicines you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements. Your doctor will determine if Carvidon MR is suitable to be used alongside your current treatment regimen and will check for any potential interactions.


Q: What should I avoid while taking Carvidon MR?

While taking Carvidon MR, you should avoid or exercise caution regarding the following:

  • Alcohol: Excessive consumption of alcohol may increase the risk of dizziness, which is a known side effect of the medicine.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: Due to the risk of dizziness and drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery, you should be cautious until you know how Carvidon MR affects you.

Always follow your doctor's specific advice on lifestyle changes and medicines to avoid while on this treatment.

Advertisements

How should Carvidon MR be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Carvidon MR?

The storage and disposal of Carvidon MR (Trimetazidine MR) must align strictly with regulatory requirements to maintain product stability and ensure public safety.

Storage & Disposal Scope Official Regulatory Requirement
Labeled storage temperature requirements: Must be stored at a temperature not exceeding 30 C (Store below 30 C) [Source 1.3].
Light/moisture protection requirements: Must be kept in a cool, dry place and protected from direct sunlight and moisture [Source 1.1].
Packaging-related storage rules: Keep the medicine in its original packaging (e.g., blister pack) until use [Source 1.1].
Child-protection storage requirements: Must be kept out of the sight and reach of children and out of reach of pets [Source 1.1, 1.2].
Disposal instructions (as documented): Any unused or expired product should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements [Source 2.3].

These official statements define that Carvidon MR is classified for controlled room temperature storage, requiring protection from environmental factors like heat and moisture [Source 1.4]. The product's stability is maintained until the expiration date, provided it remains in the original packaging under the specified conditions [Source 1.1]. For disposal, regulatory instructions mandate adherence to established local pharmaceutical waste guidelines [Source 2.3].

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Carvidon MR found in:

A-Z Index: