Ziac

biosoprolol - hydrochlorothiazide

Bisoprolol Fumarate and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets

What is this medication?

Bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide is a combination medication containing a beta-blocker (bisoprolol) and a diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide). It's primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). The beta-blocker helps slow the heart rate and relax blood vessels, while the diuretic helps the body get rid of excess salt and water, lowering blood pressure.

Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

Before starting this medication, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing conditions, including but not limited to:

• Circulation problems or blood vessel diseases: Such as peripheral artery disease.
• Decreased urine production (oliguria): This could indicate kidney problems.
• Diabetes: This medication can affect blood sugar levels.
• Heart disease, heart failure, or a history of heart attack: Bisoprolol's effects on the heart need careful monitoring.
• Kidney disease: Hydrochlorothiazide is excreted through the kidneys.
• Liver disease: The liver plays a role in medication metabolism.
• Lung or breathing problems, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Beta-blockers can worsen these conditions.
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia): Bisoprolol can further slow the heart rate.
• Thyroid disease: This can affect how the body responds to the medication.
• Allergies: To hydrochlorothiazide, bisoprolol, sulfa drugs, or any other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant: The medication's safety during pregnancy is not fully established.
• Breastfeeding: Bisoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide can pass into breast milk.

How to Take This Medication

Take this medication orally with a glass of water, as directed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food. Maintain regular dosing intervals. Never adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider. Children's use requires specific guidance from a pediatrician.

Overdosage: In case of suspected overdose, immediately contact a poison control center or emergency room.

This medication is for your personal use only. Do not share it with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Potential Drug Interactions

This medication may interact with several other drugs, including but not limited to:

• Barbiturates (e.g., phenobarbital)
• Cholestyramine
• Colestipol
• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone)
• Lithium
• Medications for chest pain or angina
• Medications for diabetes
• Medications for high blood pressure or heart failure
• Medications to control heart rhythm
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Prescription pain medications (opioids)
• Rifampin
• Skeletal muscle relaxants (e.g., tubocurarine)

This is not an exhaustive list. Always provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all medications, herbs, supplements, and substances you consume, including alcohol and tobacco.

Monitoring Your Health While Taking This Medication

Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor your progress and blood pressure. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding blood pressure monitoring. Report any significant changes in your health, particularly severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or excessive sweating, as these can lead to dehydration.

Drowsiness and dizziness are possible side effects. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Change positions slowly to minimize dizziness. Alcohol can worsen these effects; limit or avoid alcohol consumption.

This medication can impact blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, consult your doctor before adjusting your diabetic medications.

Increased sun sensitivity is a potential side effect. Use sunscreen, protective clothing, and avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.

Do not self-treat coughs, colds, or pain without consulting your doctor. Some over-the-counter medications can interact negatively with this prescription.

Possible Side Effects

Report to your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives, swelling of face, lips, or tongue)
• Breathing problems
• Chest pain
• Cold, tingling, or numb hands or feet
• Increased thirst or sweating
• Fast, irregular, or slow heartbeat
• Muscle cramps
• Skin reactions (redness, blistering, peeling)
• Swollen legs or ankles
• Tremors
• Unusual bruising
• Unusual weakness or fatigue
• Vomiting
• Worsened gout pain
• Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)

Side effects that usually don't require immediate medical attention (but should be reported to your doctor if persistent or bothersome):

• Changes in sex drive or performance
• Cough
• Depression
• Diarrhea
• Nausea

This is not a complete list of all possible side effects.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius (59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep the container tightly closed. Discard any unused medication after the expiration date.