Generic medicine

Nebivolol: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Nebivolol is indicated for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults, either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, to lower blood pressure.

Forms:Tablet

About Nebivolol

Indications of Nebivolol

Nebivolol is indicated for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults, either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions.

Off-label / Adjunctive Use

Nebivolol is also used off-label, based on clinical evidence and specialist practice, as an adjunct in the management of stable, mild-to-moderate chronic heart failure in appropriately selected patients (this is an approved indication in some countries outside the US, but not an FDA-approved indication in the United States). Such use should only be initiated and supervised by a physician experienced in heart failure management.

Dosage & Administration of Nebivolol

Hypertension (Adults)

StepDoseNotes
Starting dose5 mg once dailyWith or without food, taken at the same time each day
TitrationIncrease at 2-week intervalsBased on blood pressure response
Maximum dose40 mg once dailyHigher doses have not shown additional antihypertensive benefit in trials

Renal Impairment

Mild-to-moderate renal impairment: no dose adjustment generally required. Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) or patients on dialysis: initiate at 2.5 mg once daily; titrate cautiously and monitor closely, as data are limited.

Hepatic Impairment

Mild hepatic impairment: no dose adjustment generally needed. Moderate hepatic impairment: initiate at 2.5 mg once daily and titrate cautiously. Severe hepatic impairment is a contraindication (see Contraindications).

Elderly Patients

No overall dose adjustment is routinely required based on age alone, but titration should be cautious given a higher likelihood of reduced renal/hepatic function.

Missed Dose

If a dose of Nebivolol is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped. Do not double the dose.

Discontinuation

Nebivolol must never be stopped abruptly; see Precautions and Warnings.

Side Effects of Nebivolol

Most patients tolerate Nebivolol well. Common side effects (occurring in clinical trials at rates greater than placebo) include:

  • Headache
  • Fatigue/tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea and nausea
  • Insomnia
  • Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
  • Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
  • Rash
  • Peripheral edema (swelling of ankles/feet)

Less common but serious effects can include marked bradycardia, hypotension, heart block, bronchospasm (especially in patients with asthma/COPD), and worsening of peripheral circulation problems. Patients should seek medical attention for fainting, very slow pulse, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Contraindications of Nebivolol

Nebivolol is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Nebivolol or any component of the formulation.
  • Severe bradycardia.
  • Sick sinus syndrome, unless a permanent pacemaker is in place.
  • Second- or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, unless a permanent pacemaker is in place.
  • Decompensated cardiac (heart) failure.
  • Cardiogenic shock.
  • Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C, or Child-Pugh >B).

Frequently Asked Questions about Nebivolol

What is Nebivolol used for?

Nebivolol is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It is a cardioselective beta-blocker that also relaxes blood vessels, helping to lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart.

Can I stop taking Nebivolol suddenly if I feel better?

No. Nebivolol should never be stopped abruptly, especially if you have coronary artery disease. Sudden discontinuation can cause a rebound rise in heart rate and blood pressure, and has been linked to worsening chest pain and heart attack. Always taper off Nebivolol gradually under a doctor's supervision.

Is Nebivolol safe for people with asthma?

Nebivolol is more heart-selective than older beta-blockers, but it can still affect the airways, especially at higher doses. People with asthma or COPD should use Nebivolol only with caution and close medical supervision, and should have a bronodilator available; those with severe or poorly controlled bronchospastic disease should generally avoid it.

Can I take Nebivolol if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Nebivolol should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit clearly outweighs the potential risk to the baby, as data in humans are limited and animal studies showed risk. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended during Nebivolol treatment because it is not known whether it passes into breast milk in significant amounts; consult your physician before use in either situation.

Does Nebivolol affect diabetes management?

Yes. Nebivolol can mask some of the early warning signs of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), such as a fast heartbeat, in people with diabetes. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood glucose closely while taking Nebivolol and discuss this with your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much Nebivolol?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose, in which case skip the missed dose; do not double up. If you or someone else has taken more Nebivolol than prescribed, seek emergency medical attention immediately, as overdose can cause dangerously slow heart rate and low blood pressure.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

DoctorBlogArticles