Bisoprolol
Beta blocker
Table of contents
**Updates**
We updated this drug summary on 2nd of September 2024, removed 'Snippets at a glance', removed TLDR section, added simple definitions, and condensed longer paragraphs into summary points to improve readability.
What is bisoprolol used for?
Bisoprolol is a beta blocker that blocks the effects of hormones on the heart and blood vessels.
It treats high blood pressure, heart failure and chest pain.
Hormones - Messengers in the body that control many important functions such as energy levels, mood and growth.
What is the mechanism of action of bisoprolol?
Beta receptors - Special spots on cells that catch hormones like adrenaline, helping the cell know what to do.
What are the contraindications of bisoprolol?
In uncontrolled heart failure, the heart can't pump well. Beta blockers can make this worse, causing fluid buildup and worsening symptoms.
Asthma narrows the airways. Non-selective beta blockers in particular can make them even narrower. This can cause breathing problems and asthma attacks.
Non-selective beta blockers - Block multiple types of beta receptors, affecting the heart, lungs and other parts.
Important bisoprolol prescribing safety information.
Bisoprolol can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) and affect the body’s response to hypoglycaemia.
Starting with a low dose helps to lower the risk of side effects. The dose can then be adjusted to reach
best results safely.
Hypoglycaemia - Is low blood sugar. Beta-blockers can hide symptoms like fast heartbeat and shaking, making it harder to notice.
Hyperthyroidism - Is an overactive thyroid. Beta-blockers can hide symptoms like fast heartbeat, shaking, and sweating, making it harder to notice.
Bisoprolol patient counselling advice.
Recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes staying well-hydrated, a balanced diet with adequate sleep and exercise.
Signs of dehydration - Include feeling thirsty, dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, and feeling tired or weak.
References
References
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2. Dungan, Kathleen, et al. “Effect of Beta Blocker Use and Type on Hypoglycemia Risk among Hospitalized Insulin Requiring Patients.” Cardiovascular Diabetology, vol. 18, no. 1, 27 Nov. 2019, https://doi.org/10.1186/s12933-019-0967-1. Link
3. Jones, D K, and S Solomon. “Thyrotoxic Crisis Masked by Treatment with Beta-Blockers.” BMJ, vol. 283, no. 6292, 5 Sept. 1981, pp. 659–659, https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.283.6292.659. Link
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5. Morales, Daniel R., et al. “Respiratory Effect of Beta-Blockers in People with Asthma and Cardiovascular Disease: Population-Based Nested Case Control Study.” BMC Medicine, vol. 15, no. 1, 27 Jan. 2017, https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-017-0781-0. Link
6. Motiejunaite, Justina, et al. “Adrenergic Receptors and Cardiovascular Effects of Catecholamines.” Annales D’Endocrinologie, vol. 82, no. 3-4, Mar. 2020, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32473788/, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ando.2020.03.012. Link
7. Naik, S. D., and Ronald S. Freudenberger. “Beta-Blocker Contraindications: Are There Patients or Situations Where Use Is Inappropriate?” Current Heart Failure Reports, vol. 4, no. 2, June 2007, pp. 93–98, https://doi.org/10.1007/s11897-007-0006-5. Link
8. Prichard, B. N. C. “Bisoprolol: A New Beta-Adrenoceptor Blocking Drug.” European Heart Journal, vol. 8, no. suppl_M, 1 Dec. 1987, pp. 121–129, academic.oup.com/eurheartj/article-abstract/8/suppl_M/121/607130, https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/8.suppl_M.121. Link