Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Bisoprolol (bisoprolol fumarate) and nebivolol (Bystolic) are both beta blockers used to treat high blood pressure, but they have some differences. Bisoprolol is a cardioselective beta blocker, meaning it mainly targets the heart and is less likely to cause breathing problems compared to non-selective beta blockers. Nebivolol, on the other hand, not only slows down the heart rate but also relaxes blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure further. While both medications are taken once daily, bisoprolol is available only as a generic, whereas nebivolol is available as both a brand name (Bystolic) and a generic. Nebivolol is less likely to cause erectile dysfunction and weight gain compared to other beta blockers, including bisoprolol. Both medications can cause dizziness and tiredness, and you should avoid alcohol while taking them to prevent worsening these side effects. Additionally, neither medication should be stopped suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to serious heart problems.
Bisoprolol
Nebivolol (Bystolic)
Bisoprolol
Nebivolol (Bystolic)
Summary of Zebeta vs. Bystolic
Summary for Beta blocker
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.
Summary for Beta blocker
Prescription only
Nebivolol (Bystolic) is a beta blocker. It's used to treat high blood pressure in adults, but it's not a first-choice medication for this condition. The typical dose is to take one tablet by mouth daily. Some of the more common side effects of nebivolol (Bystolic) include dizziness and tiredness. Don't drink alcohol while taking this medication because doing so can worsen dizziness. Nebivolol (Bystolic) is less likely to cause erectile dysfunction and weight gain compared to other beta blockers. It's available as both brand name Bystolic and generic nebivolol.