Bisoprolol

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Adco-bisocor, Bilocor, Cardicor, Concor

Popular combinations:

Bilocor Co, Ziabeta, Ziak

Drug group:

Beta blocker

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Bisoprolol is used in the treatment of:

• Angina (cardiac chest pain)
• Heart failure - usually in combination with an ACE inhibitor and a diuretic
• High blood pressure - not usually first-line treatment

How does it work?

Bisoprolol is usually avoided in asthmatics – even though it is a cardioselective beta blocker, and is less likely to provoke breathing difficulties than noncardioselective beta blockers.

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Heart failure: initially 1.25mg once daily, increasing to 10mg once daily
• Hypertension and angina: 5–20mg daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 2 hours, full antihypertensive effect in two weeks

How long will the effects last?

24 hours

When should I stop using it?

Discuss with your doctor, should be withdrawn gradually
  

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No special problems                                                                        

What are the possible side effects?

The side effects of Bisoprolol are usually temporary and tend to diminish with long-term use.

The following have been reported:

• More common: dizziness, lethargy, fatigue, cold hands/feet
• Less common: nausea and vomiting
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: severe dizziness, fainting, palpitations, breathlessness, wheezing, nightmares, vivid dreams, rash, dry eyes

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: asthma, heart/liver/kidney problems, diabetes, psoriasis, phaeochromocytoma.
• Other medicines: Other antihypertensives, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), insulin and oral antidiabetics, calcium channel blockers, cardiac glycosides (e.g. digoxin)
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not usually recommended
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause fatigue and dizziness
• Alcohol: Avoid excessive intake
• Surgery and general anaesthetics: Discuss with your doctor, drug may need to be stopped