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Bisoprolol

Brand names: Zebeta (brand discontinued), Ziac (with HCTZ)

Bisoprolol is a beta blocker that lowers blood pressure and heart rate. It's also used for heart failure.

Brand namesZebeta (brand discontinued), Ziac (with HCTZ)
Type of medicineBeta blocker
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It mainly acts on the heart, so it's less likely to affect the lungs than some beta blockers.

What it's used for

  • High blood pressure
  • Off-label: heart failure, AFib rate control, angina

How to take it

  • Take it once a day, with or without food.
  • Don't stop suddenly. Stopping fast can cause chest pain or a heart attack.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Slow heartbeat
  • Cold hands and feet
Call 911Chest pain, fainting, or a very slow heartbeat
Call 911Wheezing or trouble breathing
Call your provider todaySwelling in the legs, fast weight gain, or worse shortness of breath

Warnings

  • It can hide signs of low blood sugar.
  • Use with care with asthma or COPD.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Other heart-rate medicines (diltiazem, verapamil, digoxin, amiodarone) can slow the heart too much.
  • Clonidine: stopping either needs a careful plan.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.