nebivolol Health Article

Generic name(s):

nebivolol

Brand name(s):

Bystolic

What is the most important information I should know about nebivolol?

Do not skip doses or stop taking nebivolol without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse or cause other serious heart problems such as severe chest pain or heart attack. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely. If you need to have any type of surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using nebivolol. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time. Nebivolol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Nebivolol is only part of a complete program of treatment for hypertension that may also include diet, exercise, and weight control. Follow your diet, medication, and exercise routines very closely if you are being treated for hypertension.

Hypertension often has no symptoms, so you may not even feel that you have high blood pressure. Continue using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

What is nebivolol?

Nebivolol is in a group of drugs called beta-blockers. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Nebivolol is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

Nebivolol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking nebivolol?

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to nebivolol or if you have:

• severe liver disease; or

• a heart problem such as heart block, sick sinus syndrome, slow heart rate, or heart failure.

Before taking nebivolol, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• asthma, bronchitis, emphysema;

• liver or kidney disease;

• diabetes;

• a thyroid disorder;

• problems with circulation (such as Raynaud's syndrome);

• pheochromocytoma; or

• if you have recently had a heart attack.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use nebivolol, or you may need a dose adjustment or special tests during treatment.

FDA pregnancy category C. This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether nebivolol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.