Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Bisoprolol is employed, either on its own or in conjunction with other medications, to manage high blood pressure. The reduction of high blood pressure is essential in averting strokes, heart attacks, and kidney complications. This medication falls within the category of medications referred to as beta blockers. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting specific natural chemicals in the body, such as epinephrine, from affecting the heart and blood vessels. This action leads to a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and the strain on the heart.
Uses and Dosage
Bisoprolol is available in tablet form for oral administration. Typically, it is taken once a day, and to ensure consistency, try to take it at approximately the same time each day.
Adhere to the prescribed dosage of bisoprolol, and refrain from taking more or less than instructed or increasing the frequency without your doctor’s approval.
Typically, your doctor will initiate your treatment with a low dose of bisoprolol and then gradually adjust the dose as needed. During this adjustment period, maintain open communication with your doctor, sharing any symptoms or changes in how you feel.
Bisoprolol is effective in managing high blood pressure but does not offer a cure. You might need to wait a few weeks to experience the medication’s full benefits. Continue taking bisoprolol consistently, even if you believe you are in good health. Avoid discontinuing the medication without consulting your doctor, as abrupt cessation can lead to severe heart issues like angina (chest pain), heart attacks, or irregular heartbeats. If your doctor decides to decrease your dose, this will likely be done gradually over the course of a week, and your doctor will closely monitor your progress, possibly advising you to limit physical activity during this transition.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- dizziness
- excessive tiredness
- weakness
- nausea or vomiting
- diarrhea
- muscle or joint pain
- runny nose, cough, or sore throat
- dry mouth
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- shortness of breath
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- unusual weight gain
- fainting
- chest pain
Caution
Before starting bisoprolol, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you may have, whether to bisoprolol itself or other substances. This medication might contain inactive components that could trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
Prior to using this medication, discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist. This is especially crucial if you have specific conditions, including certain types of heart rhythm issues, respiratory problems, kidney disease, liver disease, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), a history of severe allergic reactions requiring epinephrine treatment, circulation problems, mental health conditions, or a specific muscle disease known as myasthenia gravis.
Bisoprolol may induce dizziness, and the use of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Abstain from activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you are confident in your ability to do so safely.
This medication can alter the typical sensations of a fast or pounding heartbeat that accompany low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Other symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness and sweating, remain unaffected. If you have diabetes, be aware that bisoprolol may make it more challenging to manage your blood sugar levels. Regularly monitor your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor, and promptly report any signs of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst and urination. Your doctor may need to make adjustments to your diabetes treatment plan, exercise regimen, or dietary choices.
Children may face an elevated risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when taking this medication, especially if they experience vomiting or irregular eating patterns. To minimize the likelihood of low blood sugar, ensure that children eat at regular intervals. If your child is unable to maintain regular eating habits, experiences vomiting, or displays symptoms of low blood sugar (like sweating or shaking), promptly consult your doctor.
During pregnancy, use this medication only when the benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks. There may be a risk of harm to an unborn baby, so discuss your situation thoroughly with your doctor.
It remains uncertain whether this medication transfers into breast milk. Consult your doctor prior to breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Zebeta is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Zebeta tablet:
- 5mg
- 10mg
-
bisoprolol tablet:
- 2.5mg
- 5mg
- 10mg
FAQ
How long can you stay on Zebeta?
Usually, treatment with Zebeta is long term, even for the rest of your life.
Is it better to take Zebeta in the morning or at night?
Your very first dose may make you feel dizzy, so take it at bedtime. After that, if you do not feel dizzy, it’s best to take it in the morning.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/bisoprolol/how-and-when-to-take-bisoprolol/#:~:text=How%20long%20to%20take%20it,of%20heart%20attack%20and%20stroke
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/bisoprolol-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071022?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9798/zebeta-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a693024.html
- https://www.drugs.com/zebeta.html
