Bystolic
Generic Name: Nebivolol
What is Bystolic?
Bystolic, a medication in a class called beta-blockers, is used to treat high blood pressure. It may be used alone or in combination with other blood pressure drugs.What is the most important information I should know about Bystolic?
Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing or if you develop signs or symptoms of worsening congestive heart failure, such as weight gain, shortness of breath, or excessively slow heart rate.If you are subject to low blood sugar or are a diabetic receiving insulin or oral diabetes medications, Bystolic may hide signs of low blood sugar, such as a rapid heart rate.
Notify your doctor that you are taking Bystolic before any surgery.
Patients with coronary artery disease treated with Bystolic should not discontinue therapy abruptly as it may result in chest pain and heart attack.
Patients with a history of severe allergic reactions will be more prone to allergies and may not respond to the usual dose of epinephrine used to treat these allergic episodes.
Who should not take Bystolic?
Do not take Bystolic if you have severely slow heart rate, certain heart conditions (heart block, sick sinus syndrome, heart failure), inadequate blood supply to the circulatory system (cardiogenic shock), severe liver disease, and if you are allergic to Bystolic or any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Bystolic?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Bystolic. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have bronchospastic disorders (breathing problems), chest pain, congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, diabetes, history of heart attack, kidney or liver problems, peripheral vascular disease (diseases of blood vessels outside the heart and brain), pheochromocytoma (rare tumor that develops in the core of an adrenal gland), thyroid problems, or any upcoming surgery.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The recommended starting dose is 5 milligrams (mg) once daily, with or without food, and with or without other medications. Your doctor may increase the dose at 2-week intervals, up to 40 mg. If you have kidney or liver problems, the starting dose may be 2.5 mg once daily.
How should I take Bystolic?
Take Bystolic regularly and continuously, as directed by your doctor, with or without food. Do not interrupt or discontinue Bystolic without consulting your doctor.What should I avoid while taking Bystolic?
Do not drive a car or use heavy machinery until you know how Bystolic affects you, as it may impair your ability to perform these tasks. Do not discontinue therapy abruptly.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Bystolic?
If Bystolic is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Bystolic with the following: antiarrhythmics such as disopyramide, cimetidine, clonidine, digitalis glycosides, diltiazem, fluoxetine, guanethidine, other beta-blockers, paroxetine, propafenone, reserpine, sildenafil, quinidine, and verapamil.What are the possible side effects of Bystolic?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: headache, chest pain, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, diarrhea, insomnia, abdominal pain, weakness, reduced heart rate, rash, swelling of legs and feet, trouble breathing
Can I receive Bystolic if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Bystolic during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Nursing mothers should avoid Bystolic because it may cause serious adverse effects in infants. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Bystolic?
If you miss a dose of Bystolic, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Bystolic?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
