Lopressor vs. Bisoprolol for Hypertension: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) and bisoprolol (brand name Zebeta, though the brand is no longer available) are both beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure. Metoprolol is also used for chest pain and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack, while bisoprolol is typically only used for high blood pressure when other medications aren't effective. Metoprolol is taken twice daily with food, whereas bisoprolol is taken once daily and can be taken with or without food. Common side effects of metoprolol include tiredness and dizziness, while bisoprolol can cause headaches and fatigue. Both medications can hide symptoms of low blood sugar and should not be stopped suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider. Metoprolol is available as a generic, while bisoprolol is also available in a generic form.

Metoprolol tartrate

(Lopressor)

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Bisoprolol

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Summary for Lopressor

Prescription only

Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) is a beta blocker used to treat chest pain and high blood pressure in adults. It can also lower the risk of death after a heart attack. You take it by mouth, typically once or twice a day, but your dose depends on your condition. Side effects include dizziness, shortness of breath, and it can make you tired.

Indications for Lopressor

High blood pressure
Chest pain (angina)
Lower risk of death after a heart attack

Pros and Cons for Lopressor

Pros

Fast-acting — works quickly after you take it
First choice treatment after a heart attack
Available in different strengths, so your dose can be adjusted easily
Possible option for those who are breastfeeding

Cons

Need to take with food
Typically need to take more than once a day
Not a first-choice treatment for high blood pressure, unless you have certain heart conditions
Can hide symptoms of low blood sugar

Common Side Effects for Lopressor

Tiredness (10%)
Dizziness (10%)
Diarrhea (5%)
Rash (5%)
Depression (5%)

Warnings for Lopressor

Risks of stopping treatment suddenly
Worsening heart failure
Risk of difficulty breathing
Major surgery
Hiding symptoms of low blood sugar
Hiding symptoms of overactive thyroid
Severe allergic reactions

Summary for Bisoprolol

Prescription only

Bisoprolol, or bisoprolol fumarate, is a tablet that's used to treat high blood pressure. It belongs to a group of medications called beta blockers. It's usually only given when first-choice blood pressure medications aren't working well enough. Some common side effects of bisoprolol include headache, feeling tired, and diarrhea. It has some interactions with alcohol and taking bisoprolol with alcohol can worsen dizziness and raise the risk for fainting.

Indications for Bisoprolol

High blood pressure

Pros and Cons for Bisoprolol

Pros

Works well to lower blood pressure
Available as a lower-cost generic
Only need to take it once a day
Can take it with or without food

Cons

Not a first-choice medication to lower blood pressure
Skipping or missing doses can lead to high blood pressure and higher risk of heart attacks
Can make you feel more tired
Can hide symptoms of low blood sugar if you have diabetes