What it is used for
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Chest pain from angina
- Stable chronic heart failure
- Some irregular heart rhythms
How it works
Bisoprolol blocks adrenaline-type hormones at the heart, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure. In heart failure it helps protect the heart over time by reducing the strain placed on it.
How it is taken
Taken by mouth as a tablet, usually once a day, often in the morning. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. In heart failure the dose is usually increased slowly; never stop suddenly, as this can worsen your condition.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Tiredness
- Cold hands and feet
- Slow heartbeat
- Dizziness or headache
- Sleep problems or vivid dreams
Serious effects — get help
- Very slow heartbeat, fainting, or severe dizziness
- Worsening breathlessness, wheezing, or new ankle swelling
- Sudden worsening of chest pain if stopped abruptly
- Signs of low blood sugar being masked in people with diabetes
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Heart-rate-slowing calcium channel blockers (verapamil, diltiazem)
- Other blood pressure medicines
- Diabetes medicines including insulin (may hide low-blood-sugar signs)
- Some asthma or COPD treatments
- Clonidine (care needed when stopping)
Who should take care
- Tell your clinician about asthma, COPD, or other breathing problems
- Use caution in diabetes, as it can mask low-blood-sugar symptoms
- Do not stop suddenly — taper under medical guidance
- Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with your doctor
- Mention severe circulation problems or a very slow heart rate