Visken is an oral tablet made up of a non-cardioselective beta blocker called pindolol. We carry the generic alternative of Visken in 5mg and 10mg!

Visken is prescribed alone or with other medications to treat high blood pressure, known medically as hypertension. A person who has narrow arteries and a heart that pumps more blood than normal will have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a condition in which there are little symptoms – if any at all – which is why it is important to have your blood pressure checked often. If high blood pressure goes untreated for too long, a person may risk developing heart problems (like heart attack or stroke) and kidney problems.

Visken (pindolol) is effective at treating high blood pressure because as a beta blocker it is able to block the effects of certain natural substances, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. Doing this results in lower heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.

Follow only the directions given to you by your doctor. Do not take more or less of a dose than directed. For the full benefit of the medication, ensure you take it regularly and create a routine by taking it around the same time every day and using a pillbox. Ensure you are having regular blood pressure tests throughout the duration of treatment.  Do not discontinue use when you feel better; high blood pressure often has no symptoms.

Take this medication by mouth, with or without food. This is usually done twice a day, whatever your doctor directs you to do.

Do not use Visken (pindolol)

This medication should not be used by anyone who is allergic to pindolol or by those who have asthma, “AV block” in either 2nd or 3rd degree, uncontrolled heart failure, slow heartbeats that have caused you to faint, or if your heart cannot pump blood properly.

This medication is not approved for those under the age of 18 years old.

Dose adjustment or special precautions may be required

To make sure this medication is safe for you to use, tell your doctor if you have ever had bronchitis, emphysema, angina, congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, diabetes, a thyroid disorder, depression, or liver or kidney disease.

Risks

It is not known if this medication will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Those who are breastfeeding should be aware that this medication passes into breast milk and may harm a nursing infant; do not breast feed while using this medication.

Common side effects of Visken (pindolol) may include:

dizziness; muscle or joint pain; sleep problems (insomnia); or feeling tired.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Visken (pindolol) may include:

shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain; slow or uneven heartbeats; a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or unusual changes in mood or behavior.

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Please note this is not a complete list of side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects; they are not guaranteed. If you do have side effects and they become unmanageable, consult your doctor about alternate medications.

What should I avoid while being treated with Visken (pindolol)?

When being treated with Visken, you should avoid standing up from a sitting or lying position too quickly. Getting up to fast may cause you to become lightheaded or dizzy. You may also want to avoid driving or doing other hazardous activities until you understand how pindolol affects you.

What are signs of an overdose and what should I do if I believe one is occurring?

Signs of an overdose may include slow heartbeats, shortness of breath, or severe dizziness. If you believe an overdose is occurring, contact emergency medical services right away.

 What are some drug interactions associated with Visken (pindolol)?

Some drugs that interact with Visken (pindolol) include digoxin, digitalis, insulin or oral diabetes medicines, or other blood pressure medications. This is not a complete list of drugs that interact with pindolol.

What else should I know about Visken before starting treatment?

Once you have started treatment, do not suddenly stop taking Visken. Doing this may cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may include tremors, sweating, headache, and rapid heartbeats. Always consult your doctor before stopping a medication.