Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Pindolol is utilized either on its own or in conjunction with other medications to address high blood pressure. Classified as a beta blocker, pindolol operates by relaxing blood vessels and slowing down the heart rate. This dual action aims to enhance blood flow and reduce blood pressure.
Uses and Dosage
Pindolol is administered in the form of tablets taken orally, typically twice a day. To ensure consistent intake, it’s recommended to take pindolol around the same time(s) daily.
Take pindolol precisely as directed, avoiding any deviations such as taking more or less than prescribed or increasing the frequency without your doctor’s approval.
Your doctor will likely initiate your pindolol treatment with a low dose and gradually increase it to allow your body to adjust to the medication. Communicate with your doctor about your feelings and any symptoms you may experience during this period.
While pindolol helps manage your condition, it does not provide a cure. Continue taking pindolol even if you feel well. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.
Abruptly stopping pindolol may lead to serious heart problems such as angina (chest pain), heart attack, or irregular heartbeat. Your doctor may opt to decrease your dose gradually and will closely monitor you, likely advising against strenuous physical activity during this tapering period.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- excessive tiredness
- difficulty sleeping
- unusual dreams
- nervousness
- weakness
- upset stomach
- nausea
- cold hands or feet
- muscle or joint pain
- numbness, burning, or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- difficulty breathing
- shortness of breath
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- unusual weight gain
- chest pain
- fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
Caution
- Before starting pindolol, it’s important to communicate with your doctor or pharmacist regarding any allergies, especially if you are allergic to pindolol, other beta-blockers (such as acebutolol), or any other substances present in the medication. Inactive ingredients may also be a concern for allergic reactions.
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have a history of severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), breathing problems, blood circulation issues, low blood flow to the heart/brain, diabetes, heart problems, kidney disease, liver disease, mental/mood disorders (depression), a specific muscle problem (myasthenia gravis), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), or a certain type of tumor (pheochromocytoma).
- Pindolol may cause dizziness. Combining it with alcohol or marijuana can intensify this effect. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do them safely.
- This drug may rarely elevate your blood sugar levels, potentially causing or worsening diabetes. If you experience symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst or frequent urination, inform your doctor promptly.
- Pindolol may prevent the typical fast/pounding heartbeat associated with low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This risk is higher in individuals with diabetes, during vomiting, fasting, or irregular eating patterns. Other symptoms of low blood sugar, like dizziness and sweating, are not affected by this drug.
- For those with diabetes, this drug may make it more challenging to control blood sugar levels. Regularly check your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor, and promptly inform them if you exhibit symptoms of high blood sugar.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly dizziness, while using this drug.
- During pregnancy, use pindolol only when essential, as it may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Visken is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Visken tablet:
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- pindolol tablet:
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
- 15 mg
FAQ
How long does it take for Visken to work?
Response usually occurs within the first week of treatment. Maximal response may take as long as or occasionally longer than 2 weeks.
Can I take Visken if I have asthma?
Your provider won’t prescribe Visken if you have asthma. They will likely avoid prescribing most other beta blockers as well. This is because these medications can cause your airways to tighten, which might trigger an asthma attack.
Resources
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=05dfb38c-b832-4ae0-b28b-d271008e670b&type=display#:~:text=DOSAGE%20AND%20ADMINISTRATION&text=The%20recommended%20initial%20dose%20of,occasionally%20longer%20than%202%20weeks
- https://www.goodrx.com/pindolol/what-is#faqs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/visken#google_vignette
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7091/visken-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684032.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/visken.html
