Nebivolol is a prescription beta adrenergic receptor blocker used primarily for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It belongs to a newer generation of beta blockers and combines selective blockade of cardiac beta 1 adrenergic receptors with additional vasodilating activity. Health Canada currently lists multiple nebivolol 5mg tablet products as prescription medications in Canada, including BYSTOLIC and generic formulations.
Nebivolol works predominantly by selectively blocking beta 1 adrenergic receptors in the heart. These receptors normally respond to adrenaline and noradrenaline by increasing heart rate and the force of cardiac contraction. Blocking this signaling decreases heart rate and cardiac workload, contributing to a reduction in blood pressure. One characteristic that differentiates nebivolol from many traditional beta blockers is its additional nitric oxide mediated vasodilating effect. Research indicates that nebivolol can stimulate endothelial nitric oxide activity, helping relax vascular smooth muscle and reduce vascular resistance. This combination of beta 1 blockade and vasodilation contributes to its antihypertensive effects.
Nitric oxide is an important signaling molecule produced by the vascular endothelium that helps regulate blood vessel tone and circulation. By supporting nitric oxide availability in addition to slowing cardiac activity, nebivolol has a hemodynamic profile that differs somewhat from older non vasodilating beta blockers. Nebivolol is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, either alone or in combination with other blood pressure lowering medications. Controlling persistently elevated blood pressure helps reduce long term cardiovascular risk, including the risk of stroke and myocardial infarction.
This product provides:
- Active Ingredient: Nebivolol
- Form: Nebivolol Hydrochloride
- Strength: 5mg per tablet
- Quantity: 30 Tablets
- Drug Class: Selective Beta 1 Adrenergic Receptor Blocker
- Dosage Form: Oral Tablet
- Primary Use: Management of Hypertension
The 5mg tablet is an established nebivolol strength. Canadian nebivolol products are available in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg and 20mg strengths, and Health Canada lists the 5mg formulation as a prescription oral tablet.
Common adverse effects associated with nebivolol can include headache, fatigue, dizziness, slow heart rate and low blood pressure. Because beta blockers reduce cardiac sympathetic activity, excessive beta blockade can result in clinically significant bradycardia or hypotension in susceptible patients. Nebivolol is contraindicated in certain cardiovascular conditions, including severe bradycardia, significant heart block, cardiogenic shock and decompensated heart failure. Severe liver impairment is also listed as a contraindication in current prescribing information.
Like other beta blockers, nebivolol can mask some warning signs of low blood sugar, particularly an increased heart rate, which is an important consideration for people with diabetes or those susceptible to hypoglycemia. Nebivolol should generally not be discontinued abruptly after regular use, particularly in patients with coronary artery disease. Sudden withdrawal of beta blocker therapy can worsen cardiovascular symptoms, so treatment changes should be managed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Nebivolol 5mg is a prescription medication and should be used according to the directions and monitoring recommendations of a qualified healthcare professional.