Key takeaways
Ziac (bisoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide) and metoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide are both combination beta blocker medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they have some differences. Ziac combines bisoprolol, a cardioselective beta blocker, with hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic. Metoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide combines metoprolol tartrate, another selective beta blocker, with the same diuretic. Ziac is typically taken once daily, while metoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide can be taken once or twice daily with food. Both medications can cause dizziness and tiredness, but Ziac may also cause headaches and diarrhea. Additionally, Lopressor HCT, the brand name for metoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide, is no longer available, but both medications are available as low-cost generics. Both medications should not be stopped suddenly due to the risk of serious heart problems.
