Bispro (Bisoprolol Fumarate)

Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information

Prescription Required

Quick Facts

Generic Name
bisoprolol fumarate
Drug Class
beta blocker
Used For
treatment of heart failure
How Taken
oral tablet once daily

What Is Bispro Used For?

Bispro contains bisoprolol fumarate and is primarily used to manage heart failure. It helps improve heart function and reduce hospital admissions related to heart failure.

Primary Uses

Bispro is used to treat heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

How It Works

As a beta blocker, Bispro reduces the heart's workload by slowing the heart rate and decreasing the demand for oxygen, thereby improving heart efficiency.

Good to know: Bispro is not considered addictive.

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How to Take Bispro

Bispro should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider, typically in the morning.

Dosage Instructions

The usual starting dose is 1.25 mg once daily for one week. If tolerated, the dose may be gradually increased to a maintenance dose of 10 mg once daily.

What If You Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.

Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Available Tablet Strengths

2.5mg
2.5mg Tablet White, Heart-shaped • AUST R 130178
5mg
5mg Tablet Yellowish white, Heart-shaped • AUST R 130180
10mg
10mg Tablet Pale orange-light orange, Heart-shaped • AUST R 130182

Side Effects

Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:

  • tiredness
  • dizziness
  • headache
  • sleep disturbances
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • constipation
  • coldness or numbness in hands or feet
  • allergic runny nose
  • hair loss
  • sexual problems

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • muscular weakness or cramps
  • dizziness or light-headedness (especially upon standing)
  • very slow heart rate
  • hallucinations
  • depression
  • skin reactions (rash, itching)
  • difficulty hearing
  • fainting
  • swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • signs of worsening heart failure
  • chest tightness or wheezing
  • yellowing of the skin or eyes

Important Warnings

Certain precautions must be taken when using Bispro.

Who Should Not Take Bispro

Do not take Bispro if you are allergic to bisoprolol or any of its ingredients, have severe heart failure, low blood pressure, or certain heart conditions.

Medical Conditions to Discuss

Inform your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes, psoriasis, thyroid disorders, or any kidney or liver issues.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as Bispro may affect your baby.

Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.

Drug Interactions

Some medications may interact with Bispro, affecting its effectiveness.

  • anti-arrhythmic medicines (e.g., disopyramide, lidocaine)
  • calcium antagonists (e.g., diltiazem, verapamil)
  • certain high blood pressure medications (e.g., clonidine, methyldopa)
  • insulin and oral diabetes medications
  • anesthetic agents
  • digoxin

Alcohol & Driving

Caution is advised regarding alcohol consumption and operating vehicles while on Bispro.

Alcohol

Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor, especially at the start of treatment.

Driving and Operating Machinery

Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Bispro affects you, as it may cause dizziness or tiredness.

Storage

Store Bispro tablets in a cool, dry place. Keep 2.5 mg tablets below 25°C and 5 mg and 10 mg tablets below 30°C.

Overdose Information

If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include slowed heart rate, difficulty breathing, and a significant drop in blood pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

The effects of Bispro can vary, but it is important to take it regularly as prescribed for optimal results.

Bispro can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day.

No, Bispro is not considered addictive.

Do not stop taking Bispro suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your condition.

Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor, especially when starting treatment.

Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Bispro.

Elderly patients should use Bispro with caution, especially those with dementia.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.

Important Disclaimer

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

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