Ziac (Bisoprolol/HCTZ)

What is Ziac?

Ziac is a combination of two medications, bisoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide. While bisoprolol is a beta blocker, hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic.

What is Ziac used for?

Ziac is indicated for the treatment of hypertension or high blood pressure. Controlling increased blood pressure helps prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney troubles.

How does Ziac work?

Ziac contains two medications: bisoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide. Bisoprolol, a beta blocker, blocks the effect of certain natural chemicals, called epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This slows heartbeat, lowers blood pressure, and reduces strain on the heart.  Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic, increases the amount of urine to get rid of extra salt and water.

How to use Ziac

Ziac should be used in the manner prescribed by a doctor. Taking the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed can be harmful.

The dosage of Ziac depends on your age, kidney and liver function, medical condition and response to treatment.

Ziac is usually taken orally once a day. It can be taken with or without food, unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor.

Do not stop taking the medicine unless directed by your doctor.

Ziac warnings and precautions

Do not use Ziac if you are allergic to bisoprolol or hydrochlorothiazide or if you have any of the following conditions: sick sinus syndrome or AV block of the second or third degree, severe or uncontrolled heart failure, inability to urinate, allergy to sulfa drugs or to beta-blockers.

Prior to taking the medication, inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, congestive heart failure, bronchospastic lung disease, thyroid disorder, problems with blood circulation, gout, lupus, or diabetes.

Make sure that you do not become overheated or dehydrated in hot weather or during exercises. Avoid consuming alcohol or taking medicines that can make you light headed. You should also avoid standing up fats from a lying or sitting position else you may feel dizzy. Do not drive or perform any attention requiring task after taking your Ziac 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 Ziac dose?

If you have missed a Ziac dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

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

If you have taken an overdose of Ziac, consult your doctor immediately.

Ziac interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Ziac include insulin or orally taken diabetes medicines, colestipol or cholestyramine, steroids, lithium, rifampin, NSAIDs such as aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, etodolac, indomethacin, naproxen, etc.; other heart or blood pressure medicines, or calcium channel blockers.

It is important to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicines that you are taking, before taking Ziac.

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

Ziac side effects

Side effects from Ziac include allergic reactions such as hives, breathing difficulty, swelling, weight gain, shortness of breath; slow, fast, or uneven heartbeat; chest pain, bruising, bleeding, numbness or tingling in hands or feet, increased thirst and urination, muscle pain, pain in one or both legs, weakness, drowsiness, restlessness, sudden numbness, vision or speech problem, light-headedness, nausea, vomiting, headache, dry mouth, confusion, hallucinations, convulsions, pain in the upper stomach, appetite loss, dark urine, clay-colored stools, or jaundice. Contact your doctor if you experience any of these side effects.

Diarrhea, upset stomach, constipation, spinning sensation, dizziness, headache, fatigue, runny nose, and cough are some less serious side effects of Ziac.