Print this page
Email a friendDrug Library
Generic Name: Bisoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide
Brand Name(s): Ziac
Information updated: April 1, 2000
Overview
Ziac combines two different drug ingredients in one tablet. Bisoprolol was approved by the FDA in 1992 and is available by itself as Zebeta, while hydrochlorothiazide has been a mainstay of hypertension treatment for decades. Ziac is prescribed to control high blood pressure
Side Effects and Interactions
Ziac is usually well tolerated with few side effects.
Dizziness and fatigue were reported by some people participating in the tests of the medication. Slowed heart rate, chest pain, muscle aches, and impotence may also occur, but rarely.
Report any suspected reactions to the physician promptly.
Hydrochlorothiazide alone can make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Avoiding sun exposure or using sunscreen and protective clothing are sensible precautions for those taking Ziac.
Ziac may increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of antihypertensive drugs. It should not be combined with other beta blockers such as atenolol or propranolol.
Patients should be monitored with extra care if they must take Ziac with other heart or blood pressure drugs including Calan, Cardizem CD , Catapres, Dilacor XR , Isoptin, Norpace, or Verelan.
Other medications that may have the potential to interact with Ziac include diabetes medicines, cortisone-like drugs, muscle relaxants, lithium, and arthritis medicines (NSAIDs).
Check with your doctor and pharmacist to make sure Ziac is safe in combination with any other drugs you take.
Special Precautions
People with liver or kidney disease may need lower doses of the drug and should be under close medical supervision.
Ziac, like other medicines that contain beta blockers, is not usually considered appropriate for people with asthma.
A patient who develops breathing difficulty while on Ziac should contact the physician without delay.
Hydrochlorothiazide can aggravate lupus (SLE). Make sure your physician is aware of your health history.
Taking the Medicine
Food does not affect the absorption of Ziac, which is taken once daily.
Do not stop taking Ziac suddenly; it must be phased out gradually over two weeks to avoid dangerous complications.
Tags:
Bookmark/Share: 
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio.
© 2000