Visken (Pindolol)

What is Visken?

Visken belongs to a category of drugs known as beta-blockers, which affect the heart and blood circulation in the body through arteries and veins. It is, in fact, a synthetic beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent.

What is Visken used for?

Visken is indicated for the treatment of hypertension or high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure prevents heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems. The medication may also help reduce the heart rate and strain on the heart.

How does Visken work?

Visken works by blocking the effects of particular natural substances (such as adrenalin and epinephrine) on blood vessels and the heart.

How to use Visken

Use Visken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Read the instruction leaflet very carefully before taking the drug. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

The medicine is usually taken twice daily, by mouth. It can be taken with or without food.

Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day. Get your blood tested on a regular basis, while you are on the dosing schedule of this medicine.

Visken warnings and precautions

Do not take Visken if you are allergic to pindolol or other beta-blockers. The medicine should also not be taken if you have very slow heart rate, heart failure, asthma or second/ third degree heart block.

Before taking this medication, let your doctor know about your medical history, especially if it consists of slow heart rate, coronary artery disease, low blood pressure, diabetes, low blood pressure, heart problems, liver diseases, kidney diseases, mood disorders (such as depression), muscle problems, overactive thyroid or a certain type of tumor called pheochromocytoma.

Alcohol consumption should be limited while you are being treated with Visken. Also, activities requiring alertness should be avoided as the drug may cause dizziness. Therefore it is advised not to stand up immediately after taking your Visken dose.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to take this medicine only after taking doctor’s permission.

What do I do if I have missed a Visken dose?

If you have missed a Visken dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose or if the next dose is just 4 hours (or less) away, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Visken overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Visken, consult your doctor right away.

Visken interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Visken when used in tandem with it. These include digoxin, insulin or orally taken diabetes medication , cold medicines, diet pills, thioridazine, heart medication such as serpasil, medicines for breathing disorders or asthma such as theophylline (Theolair, Theo-Dur), bitolterol (Tornalate), albuterol (proventil, ventolin), pirbuterol (Maxair), terbutaline (Brethine, Brethaire, Bricanyl), or metaproterenol (Alupent).

Therefore, it is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription and non prescription drugs that you are taking, before using Visken. Also, tell him about any herbal medicines, or mineral or vitamin supplements that you have been using.

Do not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Visken side effects

Side effects from Visken include hives, breathing trouble, swelling on the face, throat, lips or tongue, light-headedness, uneven or slow heartbeats, breathlessness, fainting, swelling of feet or ankles, stomach pain, nausea, loss of appetite, low fever, clay colored stools, dark urine, depression, jaundice or cold feeling in feet and hands. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Impotence, decreased sex drive, difficulty in having an orgasm, feeling of being tired, anxiety, nervousness and sleep problems are some less serious side effects of Visken.