However there are some side effects it is essential to be aware of as they could mean seeing your GP or even calling 999. The NHS warned: "It happens rarely, but some people have serious side effects when taking bisoprolol. Call a doctor or call 111 now if:
- you have shortness of breath with a cough that gets worse when you exercise (like walking up stairs), swollen ankles or legs, or an irregular heartbeat – these are signs of heart problems
- the whites of your eyes turn yellow, or your skin turns yellow although this may be less obvious on brown or black skin – these can be signs of liver problems
It added: "Call 999 now if:
- you have chest pain – this can be a sign of heart problems
- you have shortness of breath, wheezing and tightening of the chest – these can be signs of lung problems"
You should also dial 999 if you have a serious allergic reaction to the medication - also known as anaphylaxis. It says you should "call 999 now" if:
- your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
- you're breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you're choking or gasping for air)
- your throat feels tight or you're struggling to swallow
- your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
- you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
- someone faints and cannot be woken up
- a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)
It said: "You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling. These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital."
It added: "Do not drive yourself to A&E. The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do."
