The NHS warns about serious side effects of a common heart medication. Many people in the UK take this medication for heart and circulation problems.

Over 50 million prescriptions are given each year for this drug. It helps patients with blood pressure, heart rate, and other conditions. Bisoprolol is the most commonly prescribed beta-blocker.

In 2024-25, it was prescribed 32 million times in England. The NHS says taking Bisoprolol helps prevent heart disease and strokes if you have high blood pressure.

Bisoprolol prevents chest pain and treats irregular heartbeats. It works by slowing down your heart rate and making it easier for your heart to pump blood. It also treats other conditions.

Many prescriptions for Bisoprolol are given in England each year.

There are important things to know when taking this medication. If you start taking it, take it at bedtime because it can cause dizziness.

Some common side effects affect more than one in 100 people. These side effects are usually mild and do not last long.

Some side effects are serious and may need a doctor's visit or a call to 999. The NHS says some people have serious side effects when taking Bisoprolol.

People take this medication for heart and circulation problems.

Call 999 now if:

You should call 999 if you have a serious allergic reaction to the medication.

You may have a rash that is swollen or itchy. These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need hospital treatment.

Do not drive to the hospital yourself. The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice.