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Home > Drug Category > Blood Pressure Medications (Calcium & Beta Blockers) > Ziac and Equivalent

Ziac Information

Ziac is a combination medication containing bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide, used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Bisoprolol is a beta-1 selective (cardioselective) adrenergic receptor blocking agent. It works by blocking the effects of certain natural chemicals in your body, such as epinephrine, on your heart and blood vessels. This action slows down your heart rate and lowers blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). It helps the body get rid of extra water and salt through increased urination, which also helps to lower blood pressure. Ziac combines these two medications to reduce blood pressure more than either medication alone. It is typically taken once daily, sometimes with other blood pressure medication. Lowering high blood pressure helps to prevent serious cardiovascular events such as strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

Ziac Side Effects

Common side effects of Ziac may include dizziness, fatigue, diarrhea, headache, and nausea. These side effects are usually mild and may decrease as your body adjusts to the medication. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, such as:
• Changes in blood lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides)
• Chest pain
• Electrolyte imbalances (specific levels of potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium)
• Fast, slow, or uneven heartbeat
• Gout
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Mood changes
• Muscle cramps
• Pancreatitis
• Shortness of breath
• Sleep disturbances
• Skin reactions (rash, photosensitivity beyond increased sun sensitivity)
• Sexual dysfunction
• Swelling of the ankles or feet
• Unusual tiredness or weakness

Other potential side effects can include cold hands and feet, muscle cramps, increased thirst, urination, blurred vision, and symptoms of electrolyte imbalance (such as muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or confusion).

Ziac Precautions

Do not use Ziac if you are allergic to bisoprolol, hydrochlorothiazide, or other sulfa drugs. Also, do not use this medication if you have certain serious heart conditions, such as severe heart failure, a very slow heartbeat, or certain heart rhythm disorders. Before taking Ziac, tell your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have asthma or other lung diseases, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid problems, peripheral vascular disease, gout, lupus, or a history of allergic reactions. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, as Ziac may harm an unborn baby or pass into breast milk. Tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as Ziac can interact with other medicines. Significant interactions can occur with other blood pressure medications, certain heart medications (like digoxin and amiodarone), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), lithium, and certain diabetes medications. Alcohol can increase the drowsiness and dizziness caused by Ziac. Ziac may increase your sensitivity to the sun, so avoid prolonged sun exposure and use sunscreen. If you have diabetes, Ziac may make it harder to control your blood sugar levels and may also mask the warning signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Ziac may interfere with specific lab tests, including tests involving the thyroid. Ensure you tell your doctor about all medications before any blood tests.

Take Ziac exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily. You can take Ziac with or without food, but it is essential to be consistent with how you take it daily. Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it. Take Ziac at the same time each day to help you remember. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your blood pressure and how you respond to the medication. Continue to take Ziac even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms. Do not stop taking Ziac suddenly without talking to your doctor, as this can worsen your condition. Store Ziac at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep all medications out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Ziac?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Ziac.