Bisoprolol: Uses, How It Works, Medicines
Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் मराठी తెలుగు ಕನ್ನಡ বাংলা ગુજરાતી മലയാളം ਪੰਜਾਬੀ
Bisoprolol is a prescription beta blocker that slows the heart and lowers blood pressure. It is used to treat high blood pressure and angina, and with other medicines, heart failure. It must not be stopped suddenly and should only be started or stopped on a doctor's advice.
Also known as: Bisoprolol fumarate, Bisoprolol 2.5 mg, Bisoprolol 5 mg, Bisoprolol 10 mg, Concor, Cardicor
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How does Bisoprolol work?
Bisoprolol blocks the effect of adrenaline on the heart. The heart beats more slowly and with less force, and blood pressure falls, so the heart has less work to do.
How to take Bisoprolol
Follow the label or your doctor's advice. Bisoprolol is usually taken once a day, often in the morning, and swallowed whole with water. Your doctor decides the dose and how long you need it.
Side effects of Bisoprolol
Most people take bisoprolol without serious problems. Some side effects are common and mild, but a few need medical help.
Uncommon or mild
- Headache
- Tiredness
- Cold or numb hands and feet
- Dizziness from low blood pressure
- Nausea or an upset stomach
Rare but serious: get medical help
- A very slow or irregular heartbeat, or worsening heart symptoms
- Breathing problems such as wheezing or a tight chest
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or a severe rash (a serious allergic reaction). Get medical help immediately
- Yellow skin or eyes (possible liver problems)
Who should be careful
Some people need to check with a doctor before taking bisoprolol, or need extra care while taking it.
When the label says not to use it
- Allergy to bisoprolol, another beta blocker or any ingredient of the tablet
- Stopping it suddenly without a doctor's advice
- Do not stop it suddenly: this can make the condition worse. Talk to your doctor first
- Asthma or other breathing problems
- Low blood pressure or a slow heartbeat
- Diabetes: it can hide the signs of low blood sugar, and fasting is not advised
- Kidney disease
- Poor circulation in the legs
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: ask your doctor; extra checks may be offered in pregnancy, and it can affect a breastfed baby
Medicines and things that interact with Bisoprolol
Bisoprolol can change how other medicines work, and some medicines change its effect. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take, including painkillers bought over the counter.
- Other heart and blood pressure medicines: blood pressure and heart rate may fall too far
- Some antidepressants: ask your doctor
- NSAID painkillers such as ibuprofen: they can weaken its effect
- Nasal decongestants and some eye drops for glaucoma
- Alcohol: can increase the risk of low blood pressure
If someone takes too much
Too much can slow the heart and cause dizziness, trembling and difficulty breathing. If someone has taken more than prescribed, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital and take the medicine pack with you. Do not drive yourself.
Regulatory status in India
Approved for sale in India as a prescription medicine. Bisoprolol is not listed as a single ingredient on the CDSCO list of medicines banned under section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Fixed-dose combinations that contain bisoprolol with other medicines may be treated differently, so check the ingredient list on the pack.
Type of medicine
Bisoprolol belongs to this type of medicine.
Medicines that contain Bisoprolol
These medicines sold in India contain Bisoprolol. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.
- Concor 5 · 5 mg tablet
What is Bisoprolol used for?
Medicines that contain Bisoprolol are used for these conditions.
Common questions
Is bisoprolol a prescription medicine?
Yes. Bisoprolol is a prescription-only medicine in India. It should be taken only if a doctor has prescribed it, and it should not be started, stopped or changed without the doctor's advice.
Can I stop bisoprolol suddenly?
No. Stopping suddenly can make your condition worse. Talk to your doctor before stopping or changing it. If it needs to be stopped, the doctor usually lowers the dose gradually.
What time of day should I take bisoprolol?
Most people take it once a day, usually in the morning, at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Follow the label or your doctor's advice.
Can bisoprolol be used in pregnancy?
The NHS says it can be taken in pregnancy, and extra checks may be offered. The decision is made by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a baby, and do not stop it on your own.
Does bisoprolol cause tiredness or cold hands?
Tiredness, headache and cold or numb hands and feet are common and often ease over time. Tell your doctor if they are bothersome or do not go away. Do not stop it yourself.
Sources
- Bisoprolol: a medicine for high blood pressure and heart problems. NHS (UK)
- How and when to take bisoprolol. NHS (UK)
- ATC/DDD Index: C07AB Beta blocking agents, selective. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- List of drugs prohibited for manufacture and sale through gazette notifications under section 26A of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act 1940. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)