Bisoprolol

Brand Names of Bisoprolol: Zebeta, Concor, Cardicor, Emcor, Biselect

What is Bisoprolol?

  • Bisoprolol is a medication commonly used to treat high blood pressure, control heart rates, manage angina, heart failure, and aid in recovery after heart attacks.

  • It falls under the category of beta-blockers.

How Does it Work and Why is it Important to Take?

  • Bisoprolol blocks adrenaline, easing heart stress and slowing the heart rate.

  • Vital for high blood pressure control, maintaining heart rhythm, preventing angina, reducing heart attack risk, and supporting heart failure.

  • Ensures efficient blood circulation, promoting overall heart health and well-being.

The Dose of The Medication

  • The usual starting dose is 1.25mg or 2.5mg once a day, adjusted based on your condition, blood pressure, and heart rate.

  • Gradually titrated up over a few weeks if appropriate/needed.

  • Maximum daily dose is usually 10mg, rarely increased to 20mg.

How and When to Take It

  • First dose best taken at night to manage potential dizziness.

  • Subsequent doses ideally in the morning for consistency.

What to Expect

  • Bisoprolol can start working within a couple of hours, with full effects potentially visible after up to 6 weeks.

What to Do if You Miss a Dose

  • If you forget a dose, take it when you remember.

  • If it's close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one—never double up.

Possible Side Effects

  • Fatigue

  • Dizziness

  • Cold hands or feet

  • Dizziness

  • Weakness

  • Headaches

  • Feeling or being sick

  • Diarrhoea

  • Constipation

Management of Side Effects

  • Click here for common side effects and how to manage them.

  • For cold hands and feet, warm them up and avoid smoking or caffeine.

  • Some side effects improve as your body adjusts.

  • If severe, persistent or bothersome side effects occur, consult your GP, local pharmacy, or NHS 111.

Common Interactions

  • Inform your clinician about all medications, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements.

  • Avoid over-the-counter ibuprofen as they can stop Bisoprolol working as effectively

  • Avoid cough medicine that contains pseudoephedrine or xylometazoline

Special Warnings

  • Caution in asthma; only started under specialist supervision.

  • Initial worsening in heart failure; contact GP clinician or NHS 111 if experienced.

Monitoring Your Progress

  • Regular check-ups with your GP clinician essential for blood pressure, heart rate, and overall health.

Where to Find More Information and Who to Contact

  • Refer to the patient information leaflet and the NHS website for more details.

  • If you have questions or experience unusual symptoms, contact your GP clinician, local pharmacy, or NHS 111.