Besicor 2.5 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

BESICOR 2.5 MG TABLET is a medication primarily used for managing various cardiovascular conditions. It is manufactured by Ajanta Pharma Limited.

Name

• Brand Name: BESICOR 2.5 MG TABLET
• Common Name: Bisoprolol (active ingredient)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Bisoprolol fumarate 2.5 mg

Uses

BESICOR 2.5 MG TABLET is prescribed for the treatment of:

• High blood pressure (Hypertension)
• Angina pectoris (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart)
• Stable chronic heart failure (often in combination with other medicines)
• Arrhythmias (irregular heart rhythms) It helps relax blood vessels, improve blood flow, and reduce strain on the heart, thereby preventing complications like stroke, heart attack, and kidney issues associated with uncontrolled blood pressure. It may also help alleviate symptoms caused by an overactive thyroid gland.

Dosage and Administration

• Typical Guidance: Take as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning.
• Method: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew or crush it. It can be taken with or without food.
• Adjustments: Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. For hypertension/angina, adult doses typically range from 2.5-10 mg/day, with a maximum of 20 mg/day. For heart failure, the initial dose may be 1.25 mg once daily, gradually increasing to a maximum of 10 mg/day.
• Important Note: Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation can worsen heart conditions. The first dose might cause dizziness, so taking it at bedtime initially might be advised.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Fatigue or tiredness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Cold extremities (cold hands and feet)
• Bradycardia (unusually slow heart rate)
• Hypotension (lower than normal blood pressure)

Serious Side Effects (consult your doctor immediately if experienced or worsening):

• Unusually tired or dizzy
• Very slow heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of ankles/feet
• Unusual/sudden weight gain
• Wheezing
• Worsening of heart failure symptoms
• Allergic reactions

Precautions

• Contraindications: Do not take if you have known hypersensitivity to bisoprolol, acute heart failure, worsening heart failure requiring intravenous medication, severe bradycardia, low blood pressure, certain severe heart conditions (e.g., cardiogenic shock, second or third-degree AV block, marked sinus bradycardia).
• Pregnancy: This medicine may cause harm to an unborn baby and is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary and under strict medical monitoring.
• Breastfeeding: Bisoprolol is likely unsafe during breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of Besicor 2.5 MG TABLET, potentially leading to increased dizziness or fainting.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause dizziness or fatigue. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Pre-existing Conditions:
  • Asthma: Use with caution as it may cause narrowing of airways.
  • Diabetes: Can mask symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia); blood sugar levels should be monitored closely.
  • Thyroid Disorders: May mask symptoms of hyperthyroidism.
  • Liver/Kidney Problems: Use with caution; dose adjustments and close monitoring may be necessary.
  • Heart Failure: Use cautiously as it may further weaken heart contractions; heart function will be closely monitored by your doctor.
• Children: Not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age without medical supervision.
• Older Patients: Older patients, especially those above 70, should use under medical supervision due to potential increased vulnerability to side effects.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, planned surgeries, or vaccinations, as interactions can occur with anesthetics, certain medications for brain-related disorders, and Aliskiren (for diabetes).

Storage

• Store at room temperature, ideally below 30°C.
• Keep the medicine in a tightly closed container, away from direct light and moisture.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.
• Ensure to use the medicine before its expiry date.

What is Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet used for?

Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart), irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), and chronic heart failure. It helps to improve heart function, reduce strain on the heart, and lower the risk of complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems associated with uncontrolled blood pressure.

How does Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet work?

This medicine contains bisoprolol, which is a beta-blocker. It works by specifically blocking beta-1 adrenergic receptors, mainly in the heart. This action reduces the effects of natural chemicals like adrenaline, leading to a slower heart rate, decreased force of heart contractions, and relaxation of blood vessels. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart.

What is the usual dosage for Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet?

The dosage of Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment. For high blood pressure and angina, a common starting dose is 2.5 mg once daily, which may be gradually increased up to a maximum of 20 mg once daily. For chronic heart failure, treatment typically starts at a lower dose, such as 1.25 mg once daily, and is slowly increased, with a maximum recommended dose of 10 mg per day. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.

What are the possible side effects of Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet?

Common side effects may include fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, cold extremities (such as cold hands and feet), an unusually slow heart rate (bradycardia), and low blood pressure (hypotension). Most of these side effects are usually mild and temporary. If any side effects persist or worsen, it is important to consult your doctor.

Is Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy as bisoprolol may potentially harm the unborn child or cause complications. Similarly, it is probably unsafe to use while breastfeeding, as bisoprolol can pass into breast milk in small amounts. Always consult your doctor for advice if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet be taken with other medications?

Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet can interact with various other medications. Co-administration with other antihypertensive medicines (like enalapril, lisinopril, amlodipine, or diltiazem) may lead to an excessive lowering of blood pressure or a slow heart rate. It can also interact with antiarrhythmics (e.g., digoxin) and certain medications for brain-related disorders. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and dietary supplements you are currently taking, to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet?

Several precautions should be observed:

• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and worsen dizziness or light-headedness.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so it's advisable to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you understand how it affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution if you have conditions like asthma, diabetes (as it can mask symptoms of low blood sugar), thyroid disorders (can mask hyperthyroidism symptoms), kidney or liver problems, or certain heart conditions such as severe heart failure or a very slow heart rate.
• Discontinuation: Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as abrupt discontinuation can worsen your heart condition.
• Surgery: Inform your doctor if you have any planned surgeries, as this medicine may interact with anesthesia.

What happens if a dose of Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

How should Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet be stored?

Besicor 2.5 mg Tablet should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture. Keep it in a tightly closed container and out of the reach of children. Always ensure to use the medicine before its expiry date.