Q. Is Bisoprolol a diuretic?
No, Bisoprolol is not a diuretic. Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker medicine which works by blocking the hyperactivity of the nerve impulses in the heart. This relaxes the heart muscles and eventually calms the heart.
Q. Is Bisoprolol effective?
Bisoprolol is effective if used in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you see improvement in your condition. If you stop using Bisoprolol too early, the symptoms may return or worsen.
Q. What is the best time to take Bisoprolol?
Bisoprolol can be taken anytime in the morning or evening, usually prescribed once daily. However, your very first dose of Bisoprolol may make you feel dizzy, so it is better to take your first dose at bedtime. After that, if you do not feel dizzy, you may take it any time of the day. Follow the advice of your doctor. It is advised to take it at the same time each day so that you remember to take it and consistent levels of medicine are maintained in the body.
Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Bisoprolol?
If you have missed a dose of Bisoprolol, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take it in the regular schedule instead of taking the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.
Q. How many hours does Bisoprolol take to reduce high blood pressure?
Bisoprolol starts showing its effect within 2 hours, but it can take up to 2 to 6 weeks to reach its full effect. You may not feel any difference in blood pressure, but this does not mean that the medicine is not working. Take it exactly as directed by your doctor. It's important to keep taking your medicine in the prescribed dose and duration to get the maximum benefit of Bisoprolol.
Q. What if I take more than the prescribed dose of Bisoprolol?
If you take more than the prescribed dose, your heart rate may slow down and you may find it difficult to breathe. It can also cause dizziness and trembling. It is advised to go to a hospital immediately, but do not drive yourself to avoid any mishap. Get someone else to drive you or call for an ambulance. Take the Bisoprolol packet or leaflet inside it, plus any remaining medicine, with you.
Q. What are the most common side effects of Bisoprolol?
The most common side effects of Bisoprolol are cold extremities, fatigue, slow heart rate, nausea, diarrhea and dizziness. However, these are usually mild and short-lived and not everyone will experience these side effects. But, if these do not resolve and bother you, consult your doctor to know about ways of coping up with them. Your doctor may also suggest ways of preventing them in future.
Q. Can Bisoprolol cause dizziness? How do I prevent it?
Yes. Bisoprolol can cause dizziness as a side effect. If this happens to you, you should sit or lie down until the symptoms pass. However, this is temporary and usually goes away as the treatment continues. Also, you should avoid alcohol while taking it, as it may worsen the dizziness.
Q. What should I tell my doctor before taking Bisoprolol?
Bisoprolol is not suitable for everyone. Before taking Bisoprolol you must tell your doctor if you are allergic to Bisoprolol or any of its ingredients. You must tell the doctor if you have low blood pressure or a slow heart rate, serious blood circulation problems in your limbs (such as Raynaud's phenomenon), which may make your fingers and toes tingle or turn pale or blue. Inform your doctor if you are suffering or have suffered from metabolic acidosis (when there's too much acid in your blood), lung disease or asthma. Let your doctor know about all the other medicines you are taking because they may affect, or be affected by, this medicine. Tell your doctor if you're trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or breastfeeding to prevent any harmful effects on the baby.
Q. Is Bisoprolol safe in pregnancy?
No, Bisoprolol is not safe to be taken in pregnancy. It can have many harmful effects on the fetus/newborn and can even cause complications in pregnancy. The use ofBisoprolol may decrease the blood supply to the fetus, slow down its growth, cause intrauterine death, abortion or early labor. Therefore, it is advised to consult your doctor if you are planning a baby or if you become pregnant during the course of treatment with this medication.
Q. What other lifestyle changes should I make while taking Bisoprolol?
Lifestyle changes play a major role in keeping you healthy if you are taking Bisoprolol. Avoid taking excess salt in your diet and find ways to reduce or manage stress in your life. Practice yoga or meditation or take up a hobby. Ensure that you have a sound sleep every night as this also helps to reduce stress levels and helps to keep your blood pressure normal. Stop smoking and alcohol consumption as this helps in lowering your blood pressure and preventing heart problems. Exercise regularly and take a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables and fat-free products. Consult your doctor if you need any further guidance to get the maximum benefit of Bisoprolol and to keep yourself healthy.
