Zebeta

The active ingredient in Zebeta is bisoprolol fumarate. It is a beta-blocker that works by slowing down your heart rate. When used appropriately, it can lower your risk of heart attack, heart disease, and kidney disease.

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 Zebeta. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Zebeta:

• It can be taken with or without food. If you are experiencing nausea, try taking it with food.
• Those with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels more regularly, as this medication can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• Until you know how this medication affects you, avoid driving a car or operating heavy machinery, in case you experience lightheadedness or fatigue.
• Do not stop taking this medication abruptly, as doing so can worsen heart conditions.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication, as there is an additive dizziness and risk of fainting.

Some mild or common side effects of Zebeta include:

• Headache.
• Fatigue.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness.
• Upper respiratory tract infections.

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

• Severe allergic reaction presenting with swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, hives, and trouble breathing.
• Worsening heart failure symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain (angina), rapid weight gain, fatigue, and swelling in the legs.
• Bronchospasm symptoms include trouble breathing, chest pain, wheezing, and cough.
• Masking symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) such as irritability, tremors, confusion, and a fast heartbeat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of bisoprolol. 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 Zebeta, 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:

• Heart failure.
• Peripheral vascular disease.
• Lung disease, such as asthma or COPD - use with caution.
• Diabetes with risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• High thyroid levels.

• Slow heart rate or bradycardia.
• Heart block.
• Cardiogenic shock.
• History of serious hypersensitivity reaction to any component of this medication or other medications containing bisoprolol.

The effects of bisoprolol begin after your first dose, but it may take a few weeks before you notice the full effects of this medication.

When Zebeta 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:

• Other beta-blockers or beta-adrenergic receptor agonists, such as an albuterol inhaler.
• Other antihypertensives, such as verapamil, clonidine, and diltiazem, may increase side effects when used in combination with bisoprolol.
• When used with digoxin, there is an additional risk of slow heartbeat (bradycardia).
• When used with rifampin, higher doses of bisoprolol may be needed to get the same effect.
• NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen may reduce the efficacy of bisoprolol.

Zebeta is available in the following dosage forms and strengths: 5 mg and 10mg tablets.

It should be stored at room temperature out of the reach of children or pets.

Brand-name Zebeta is manufactured by Duramed Pharmaceuticals.

Yes, it is available from several manufacturers of generic drugs.

Do not stop taking this medication suddenly. Doing so can cause an abrupt rise in heart rate or irregular heartbeat, angina, or even a heart attack.

There are no well-controlled studies of Zebeta use during pregnancy. It should only be used if the possible benefits outweigh the potential risks to the unborn baby.

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.

It is not known whether bisoprolol is present in breast milk.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.