Bystolic (generic name: nebivolol) is an oral tablet prescribed to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It may be used by itself or with other blood pressure medication. Bystolic is a medication in a group known as beta-blockers.  These drugs block the action of the hormone epinephrine, which causes the heart to beat more slowly and with less force. According to the American College of Cardiology, beta-blockers can produce better outcomes in heart failure patients with a more severe form of heart failure (reduced ejection fraction – HFrEF) but showed no benefit for those with partial ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Dosage and administration

Bystolic brand is available as tablets for oral administration containing 2.5, 5, 10, or 20-mg of nebivolol. Vasoxen is a generic equivalent available in 5 and 10-mg strengths. The prescribing doctor will stipulate the strength of initial dose and a regime for increasing the dosage according to the patient’s specific needs and reactions. The tablet can be taken with or without food. If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as remembered; but if it is close to the scheduled time of the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped. Do not double-dose. Don’t skip multiple doses or stop taking Bystolic without first talking to a doctor. Stopping suddenly may make cause the underlying condition to worsen or cause other serious heart problems such as angina (severe chest pain) or a heart attack.