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Drug interactions between metformin and Zebeta

Results for the following 2 drugs:
metformin
Zebeta (bisoprolol)

Interactions between your selected drugs

bisoprolol ↔ metformin

Applies to:Zebeta (bisoprolol) and metformin

MONITOR: Beta-blockers may inhibit some of the normal physiologic response to hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hypoglycemia such as tremors and tachycardia may be absent, making it more difficult for patients to recognize an oncoming episode. In addition, multiple effects on glucose metabolism have been reported, usually with the noncardioselective beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol, pindolol, timolol) but occasionally also with relatively beta-1 selective agents (e.g., metoprolol). Specifically, inhibition of catecholamine-mediated glycogenolysis and glucose mobilization in association with beta-blockade can potentiate insulin-induced hypoglycemia in diabetics and delay the recovery of normal blood glucose levels. Prolonged and severe hypoglycemia may occur, although these events have rarely been reported. Significant increases in blood pressure and bradycardia can also occur during hypoglycemia in diabetics treated with insulin and beta-blockers due to antagonism of epinephrine's effect on beta-2 adrenergic receptors, which leads to unopposed alpha-adrenergic effects including vasoconstriction. Other effects reported with various beta-blockers include decreased glucose tolerance and decreased glucose-induced insulin secretion.

MANAGEMENT: In general, cardioselective beta-blockers are considered safer than noncardioselective agents in the treatment of diabetic patients. Nevertheless, caution is advised if they are prescribed to patients treated with insulin or oral antidiabetic agents that can cause hypoglycemia (e.g., insulin secretagogues), as cardioselectivity is not absolute and larger doses of beta-1 selective agents may pose some of the same risks as nonselective agents. Patients should be instructed about the need for regular monitoring of blood glucose levels and be aware that certain symptoms of hypoglycemia such as tremors and tachycardia may be masked. However, other symptoms such as headache, dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, hunger, and sweating may be unaffected. The same precautions are applicable in diabetic patients treated with ophthalmic beta-blockers.

See also...

Drug Interaction Classification

The classifications below are a guideline only. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific patient is difficult to determine using this tool alone given the large number of variables that may apply.

Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.

Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your healthcare provider.


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