Visken

The active ingredient in Visken is pindolol. This drug is a non-selective beta blocker, and it lowers blood pressure by slowing down the heart rate, which helps the heart pump easily.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Visken. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Visken:

• Your blood pressure will need to be tested regularly.
• Even if you are feeling fine, continue to take this medication as advised. High blood pressure frequently produces no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.
• If you need surgery, notify the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Visken. You may need to stop taking the medication for a brief period of time.

Some mild or common side effects of pindolol include:

• Muscle pain.
• Dizziness.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Shortness of breath.
• Joint pain.
• Muscle cramps.
• Palpitations.
• Slow heartbeat (bradycardia).
• Nervousness.
• Fatigue.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Visken. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Heart failure symptoms include difficulty breathing, rapid weight gain, extreme fatigue, chest pain, and swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet.
• Bronchospasm symptoms include chest tightness, problems breathing, wheezing, coughing, disorientation, and excessive weariness.
• Allergic reaction to the medication, such as skin rashes, hives, or swelling.
• Masks the signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) such as irritability, tremors, fast heartrate, and confusion. Sweating may be the only symptom that is not affected.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Visken. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Visken, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Asthma.
• AV heart block (second or third degree).
• Uncontrolled heart failure.
• Slow heartbeats.
• Bronchitis or emphysema.
• Diabetes.
• Angina (chest pain), congestive heart failure, or coronary heart disease.
• Thyroid disorder (hyperthyroidism).
• Liver disease.
• Kidney disease.
• Depression.

• Asthma.
• Certain severe heart problems, such as heart failure with uncontrollable symptoms.

Most people experience a reduction in blood pressure about one week after starting pindolol. However, some people may need to wait up to two weeks before seeing an improvement in their blood pressure. Even if you don't see the effects of blood pressure medications like pindolol, keep taking it until your doctor tells you it's okay to stop.

When Visken is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Digoxin.
• Digitalis.
• Insulin or diabetes medication.
• Other blood pressure or antihypertensive agents.
• Clonidine.
• Diuretic.
• Epinephrine.

The typical starting dose is 5 mg taken orally twice daily. If you require more blood pressure control, your doctor may increase your dose over time to 30 mg twice daily.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Sandoz Pharmaceuticals is the company that manufactures Visken.

There are several lower-cost generic versions available of Visken.

Do not stop using Visken abruptly, or you may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms (tremors, sweating, headache, rapid heartbeat). Ask your doctor how to properly discontinue this medication.

It is not known if Visken is safe to use during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Visken is found in breast milk during lactation and may harm your nursing baby. You should not breastfeed while using this medication.