How should this medicine be used?
Bisoprolol comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take bisoprolol exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Bisoprolol helps control your condition but will not cure it. Continue to take bisoprolol even if you feel well. Do not stop taking bisoprolol without talking to your doctor.
What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking bisoprolol,
* tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to bisoprolol or any other drugs.
* tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially clonidine; medications for migraine headaches, asthma, allergies, colds, or pain; other medications for heart disease or high blood pressure; reserpine; rifampin (Rifadin); and vitamins.
* tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma or other lung disease; heart, liver, or kidney disease; diabetes; severe allergies; circulation problems; or thyroid problems.
* tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking bisoprolol, call your doctor.
* if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking bisoprolol.
* you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
* remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Although side effects from bisoprolol are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
* dizziness or lightheadedness
* excessive tiredness
* headache
* upset stomach
* diarrhea
* muscle aches
* cold hands and feet
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
* difficulty breathing
* sore throat and fever
* unusual bleeding
* swelling of the feet or hands
* unusual weight gain
* chest pain
* slow, irregular heartbeat
