What it is used for

Heart failure
Preventing angina
High blood pressure

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Controlling heart rate in atrial fibrillation and other fast heart rhythms

How it works

Bisoprolol blocks the effects of adrenaline on the heart. This slows the heart rate and makes each heartbeat less forceful, so the heart needs less oxygen and works more efficiently.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Bisoprolol can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

feeling tired or dizzy
cold hands and feet
headache
feeling sick
diarrhoea or constipation

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

a very slow heartbeat, fainting or feeling faint
shortness of breath with a cough that gets worse, wheezing, or swollen ankles
chest pain

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

It can make asthma worse. Tell your doctor if you have asthma.
It can hide signs of low blood sugar if you have diabetes.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.