Bisoprolol

About bisoprolol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as beta-blockers. Bisoprolol is used to treat a number of different problems.

High Blood Pressure
Bisoprolol slows down the activity of the heart, decreasing blood pressure.

Angina
Bisoprolol slows down the activity of the heart and reduces the heart's need for oxygen. This makes angina attacks less likely to occur.

Heart failure
Bisoprolol works by blocking the transmission of messages to the beta receptors in the heart which slows down the activity of the heart and is of benefit in some types of heart failure.

Before taking bisoprolol

Before taking bisoprolol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have low blood pressure or poor circulation.
• If you suffer from asthma or breathing difficulties.
• If you have diabetes.
• If you have psoriasis.
• If you suffer from severe allergic reactions.
• If you have heart block (a slow and irregular heart beat).
• If you suffer from myasthenia gravis, Prinzmetal's angina or phaeochromocytoma (a growth on the adrenal glands).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take bisoprolol

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take bisoprolol exactly as directed by your doctor. It is usually taken just once each day.
• Try to take bisoprolol at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, just take the next dose when it is due. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not stop taking bisoprolol without speaking to your doctor first as this can cause problems.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointments so your progress can be monitored.
• It is important to follow any dietary advice that you may have been given by your doctor.
• If you have diabetes, you may need to check your blood glucose levels more regularly as bisoprolol can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.
• Before buying any medicines (including cough, cold and flu remedies), check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside bisoprolol.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking bisoprolol.

Can bisoprolol cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store bisoprolol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines