Zebeta

Generic name: Bisoprolol fumarate

What is Zebeta?

Zebeta is a beta-1 selective adrenergic blocker. It blocks a certain type of receptor found in the heart muscle. It is used to treat high blood pressure, alone or in combination with other medicines.

What is the most important information I should know about Zebeta?

Take Zebeta continuously as directed by your doctor. Suddenly stopping Zebeta therapy may lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may include chest pain, heart attack, and a fast or irregular heartbeat.

Zebeta may mask symptoms of low blood sugar. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar frequently, especially when you first start taking Zebeta. Signs of low blood sugar may include a rapid heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, faintness, vision changes, headache, chills, tremors, or an increase in appetite. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine.

Zebeta may mask the signs of an underlying thyroid disorder. Your doctor will likely check your thyroid function before you take Zebeta.

If you have a disease that makes it hard to breath, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Zebeta can worsen your condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath.

Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to Zebeta; this medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or light-headedness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Hot weather, exercise, or fever may also increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects.

Patients who take medicine for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel "normal." Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms.

If you have a disorder of the blood vessels in your feet, legs, and hands known as peripheral vascular disease, Zebeta may worsen your condition. Talk to your doctor about your condition before taking Zebeta.

Before undergoing any type of surgery, inform your physician or dentist that you are taking Zebeta.

Who should not take Zebeta?

You should not take Zebeta if you have been diagnosed with the following heart conditions: sinus bradycardia (a type of slow heartbeat), heart block greater than first degree, severe heart failure, or cardiogenic shock.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zebeta?

Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zebeta. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, overactive thyroid, asthma, COPD, or any other disease that makes it hard for you to breathe; peripheral vascular disease (PVD); or any type of liver, kidney, or heart problems. Tell your doctor if you have a history of anaphylactic reactions to allergens, because Zebeta may decrease the effectiveness of epinephrine.

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 usual starting dose is 2.5-5 milligrams (mg) taken once a day. Based on your condition, your doctor may increase your dose to 10-20 mg taken once a day. The dose of this medication should be individualized to the needs of the patient.

How should I take Zebeta?

Zebeta should be taken at the same time every day, with or without food. Continue to take Zebeta even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

What should I avoid while taking Zebeta?

You should avoid operating an automobile or heavy machinery, as well as engaging in other tasks that require mental alertness, until you know how Zebeta will affect you.

Do not stand or sit up quickly when taking Zebeta, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting.

Do not stop taking this medication even if you feel well or change the dose without first speaking to your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zebeta?

If Zebeta 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 Zebeta with the following: bupivacaine; certain calcium channel blockers, such as diltiazem, verapamil, and mibefradil; cimetidine; clonidine; digoxin; diltiazem; disopyramide; flecainide; guanethidine; ketanserin; mefloquine; other beta-blocker medicines; reserpine; and verapamil.

What are the possible side effects of Zebeta?

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: cough, runny nose, urinary tract infection, fatigue, water retention, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, light-headedness, sleeplessness, weakness

Zebeta may mask symptoms of low blood sugar. Signs of low blood sugar may include a rapid heartbeat, anxiety, sweating, weakness, dizziness, drowsiness, faintness, vision changes, headache, chills, tremors, or an increase in appetite. Check blood sugar levels closely. Ask your doctor before you change the dose of your diabetes medicine; contact your doctor if any of these symptoms occur.

Can I receive Zebeta if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Zebeta should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is not known whether Zebeta is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when Zebeta is administered to nursing women. 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 Zebeta?

If you forget to take Zebeta, take it as soon as you remember. If it is closer to your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and take Zebeta according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your doses.

How should I store Zebeta?

Store at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), and away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Zebeta out of the reach of children.