Bisoprolol

Safetychecker Summary for Bisoprolol
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)

Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results.	Pleurisy root High-potassium foods* Potassium supplements*
Depletion or interference	None known
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known

Interactions with Dietary Supplements

Potassium
Some beta-adrenergic blockers (called “nonselective” beta blockers) decrease the uptake of potassium from the blood into the cells,¹ leading to excess potassium in the blood, a potentially dangerous condition known as hyperkalemia.² People taking beta-blockers should therefore avoid taking potassium supplements, or eating large quantities of fruit (e.g., bananas), unless directed to do so by their doctor.

Interactions with Herbs

Pleurisy root
As pleurisy root and other plants in the Aesclepius species contain cardiac glycosides, it is best to avoid use of pleurisy root with heart medications such as bisoprolol.³

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Food
Bisoprolol may be taken with or without food.⁴

Alcohol
Bisoprolol may cause drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision.⁵ Alcohol may intensify these effects and increase the risk of accidental injury. To prevent problems, people taking bisoprolol should avoid alcohol.

References:

1. Rosa RM, Silva P, Young JB, et al. Adrenergic modulation of extrarenal potassium disposal. N Engl J Med 1980;302:431–4.

2. Lundborg P. The effect of adrenergic blockade on potassium concentrations in different conditions. Acta Med Scand Suppl 1983;672:121–6 [review].

3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 213–4.

4. Leopold G, Pabst J, Ungethum W, Buhring KU. Basic pharmacokinetics of bisoprolol, a new highly beta 1-selective adrenoceptor antagonist. J Clin Pharmacol 1986;26:616–21.

5. Threlkeld DS, ed. Diuretics and Cardiovasculars, Beta-Adrenergic Blocking Agents. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, Feb 1993, 158o.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.