Concor Plus Tablet (10 Tab)

CONCOR PLUS TABLET (10 TAB) by MERCK LIMITED

Concor Plus Tablet is a combination medication primarily used for the effective management of hypertension (high blood pressure). It is particularly beneficial when blood pressure is not adequately controlled by a single medication. This medicine helps reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

Composition

Concor Plus Tablet contains two active ingredients:

• Bisoprolol (5 mg): A beta-blocker that works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate, thereby reducing the heart's workload and oxygen demand.
• Hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg): A thiazide diuretic ("water pill") that increases the amount of urine passed, helping to remove excess water and salt from the body and lower blood pressure.

Uses

Concor Plus Tablet is prescribed for:

• Treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure).
• Prevention of major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
• Protection of kidneys in high-risk patients with hypertension.

Dosage and Administration

Concor Plus Tablet should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, preferably in the morning to avoid frequent urination at night. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or break it. Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly, as this can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Fatigue/Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea, Vomiting
• Constipation, Diarrhea
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Cold extremities (hands or feet)
• Increased blood uric acid levels (which can increase the risk of gout).

Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, swelling, or signs of skin cancer.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not use if allergic to bisoprolol, hydrochlorothiazide, other beta-blockers, sulfonamides, or any other components of the tablet.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have heart disease (e.g., acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, second or third-degree AV block, symptomatic bradycardia), severe renal or hepatic impairment, asthma, diabetes, thyroid disorders, glaucoma, gout, or problems with circulation (Raynaud's syndrome).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Concor Plus Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential harm to the unborn child or infant.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking, as interactions can occur with other antihypertensives, anti-diabetic medicines, NSAIDs, and certain heart medications.

Storage

Store Concor Plus Tablet at room temperature, protected from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use expired or damaged medicine.

Here are frequently asked questions about Concor Plus Tablet:

What is Concor Plus Tablet used for?

Concor Plus Tablet is primarily used to treat mild to moderate essential hypertension (high blood pressure). It helps manage high blood pressure and can also aid in preventing major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

How does Concor Plus Tablet work?

Concor Plus Tablet combines two active ingredients: Bisoprolol and Hydrochlorothiazide. Bisoprolol, a beta-blocker, works by blocking certain chemicals that affect the heart and blood vessels, thereby reducing heart rate and making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic (water pill), helps the body eliminate excess fluid and salt through urine, which also contributes to lowering blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for Concor Plus Tablet?

The dosage of Concor Plus Tablet should always be as directed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, preferably in the morning to avoid frequent urination at night. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water and not chewed or crushed. It is important to take it at a fixed time for optimal results and not to exceed the prescribed dose.

What are the possible side effects of Concor Plus Tablet?

Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, cold extremities (hands or feet), and a slow heart rate. Some individuals might also experience increased blood uric acid levels or altered blood lipid levels. Most of these side effects are temporary and usually resolve over time. If any side effects persist or worsen, it is important to contact your doctor.

Is Concor Plus Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Concor Plus Tablet is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy as there is limited safety data and potential risks to the unborn child, including an increased risk of miscarriage. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding because its components may pass into breast milk and could harm a newborn or premature baby. Always consult your doctor for advice if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can Concor Plus Tablet be taken with other medications?

Concor Plus Tablet can interact with other medications, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking. Particular caution is advised with other blood pressure-lowering medications, medicines for irregular heartbeat (e.g., disopyramide, quinidine), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), anti-diabetic medications (e.g., insulin), lithium, and certain heart medications like digoxin.

What precautions should be taken while on Concor Plus Tablet?

Before starting Concor Plus Tablet, inform your doctor if you have allergies to its components, heart conditions (like heart failure, heart block, or symptomatic bradycardia), kidney or liver problems, diabetes, asthma or lung disease, thyroid problems, glaucoma, or gout. Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication, as it may worsen your condition. Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided as it can increase dizziness and low blood pressure. Due to potential dizziness and drowsiness, exercise caution when driving or operating machinery. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, blood sugar, and electrolyte levels is recommended during treatment.

What happens if a dose of Concor Plus Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Concor Plus 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 compensate for the missed one. Consult your doctor if you are unsure.

How should Concor Plus Tablet be stored?

Concor Plus Tablet should be stored at room temperature, protected from moisture and heat. Keep the tablets out of reach and sight of children and pets. Do not use expired or damaged medicines.