cartner
03-07-2008, 02:57 PM
Hi everyone,
I have been away for few months but I'm back again :).
I have been on Zebeta 2.5mg (at morning) + 5mg of Norvasc (at night) for the last few months. I had a problem in winter, my readings are 140/100+. Anyway, since I took this drug combination my readings range from 120/80 to 100/60 even in WINTER :D.
I really feel dizzy and tired, no matter how many cup of coffee I drink or how much salt I add to my food. My blood pressure never go higher than 120/80. Can I reduce my Norvasc to 2.5mg? I have tried Norvasc alone and I think it's not as effective as taking it with Zebeta.
Also I have another issue, I'm not married yet but I'm still worry about Zebeta and ED. I'm sure that it has an effect but I wonder if the effect will last after Zebeta leave the body?
Thanks,
Michael
I have been away for few months but I'm back again :).
I have been on Zebeta 2.5mg (at morning) + 5mg of Norvasc (at night) for the last few months. I had a problem in winter, my readings are 140/100+. Anyway, since I took this drug combination my readings range from 120/80 to 100/60 even in WINTER :D.
I really feel dizzy and tired, no matter how many cup of coffee I drink or how much salt I add to my food. My blood pressure never go higher than 120/80. Can I reduce my Norvasc to 2.5mg? I have tried Norvasc alone and I think it's not as effective as taking it with Zebeta.
Also I have another issue, I'm not married yet but I'm still worry about Zebeta and ED. I'm sure that it has an effect but I wonder if the effect will last after Zebeta leave the body?
Thanks,
Michael
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bethsheba
03-07-2008, 03:15 PM
Hi Michael,
Welcome back!
Have been on norvasc but can't remember if it is safe to cut the pill in half...I think it is, but it is best to check with your pharmacist first (some pills should not be cut in half, just for your info!)
Can't answer your questons about zebeta either...is that the brand name? or the generic? It may help other readers to know what other names it goes by as I don't recall the name "zebeta" appearing on the board recently.
Hope you father's well.
Bethsheba
Welcome back!
Have been on norvasc but can't remember if it is safe to cut the pill in half...I think it is, but it is best to check with your pharmacist first (some pills should not be cut in half, just for your info!)
Can't answer your questons about zebeta either...is that the brand name? or the generic? It may help other readers to know what other names it goes by as I don't recall the name "zebeta" appearing on the board recently.
Hope you father's well.
Bethsheba
cartner
03-07-2008, 04:06 PM
Hi Bethsheba,
Thanks for your post, Zebeta is the brand name (which is Concor in Egypt :)). The active ingrediant is called Bisoprolol, I already cut the tablet in half as the dr told me. Yes I know that some drugs can't be split in half, like those coated tablets (SR or XR).
I'm happy that my blood pressure is under control with medication, no matter what I drink or eat :D. But I don't want it that low ;)
Thanks for your help,
Michael
Thanks for your post, Zebeta is the brand name (which is Concor in Egypt :)). The active ingrediant is called Bisoprolol, I already cut the tablet in half as the dr told me. Yes I know that some drugs can't be split in half, like those coated tablets (SR or XR).
I'm happy that my blood pressure is under control with medication, no matter what I drink or eat :D. But I don't want it that low ;)
Thanks for your help,
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-08-2008, 01:28 AM
Hi Michael,:)
It's good to hear from you again! I am so happy your blood pressure is under control and all is well. I told you you'd find the perfect drug combination eventually.
Since your doctor approved this change in dosing, go for it! One thing is for sure - you don't want your heart rate or blood pressure to be too low.
This drug combination is highly controversial. Some doctors say it works well in people with chronic stable angina. It can be useful in some situations and very dangerous in others. This drug combo can result in adverse cardiovascular effects, including CHF and severe hypotension. It can also increase serum concentration of the beta blocker by inhibiting CYP450. Makes you wonder why our doctors prescribe these drugs together for us, knowing they shouldn't. :( As you know, I too am on both of these medications. (Norvasc & Bisoprolol).
Fatigue is a side effect of both of these drugs - so the lower the dose, the better off you'll be (in theory at least). The dizziness could be a result of your blood pressure being too low at times - I experience that when my blood pressure drops too much. What does your doctor say about that?
The ED is worrisome and difficult to avoid, especially with the BP meds. Norvasc has low incidence of sexual dysfunction -1-2%. The beta blocker is sure to contribute to a greater extent than the CCB. Ditto for Effexor, if you still take it (16%). Reducing your medication doses is sure to result in improvement in your side effects.
take care, Michael :)
flowergirl
It's good to hear from you again! I am so happy your blood pressure is under control and all is well. I told you you'd find the perfect drug combination eventually.
Since your doctor approved this change in dosing, go for it! One thing is for sure - you don't want your heart rate or blood pressure to be too low.
This drug combination is highly controversial. Some doctors say it works well in people with chronic stable angina. It can be useful in some situations and very dangerous in others. This drug combo can result in adverse cardiovascular effects, including CHF and severe hypotension. It can also increase serum concentration of the beta blocker by inhibiting CYP450. Makes you wonder why our doctors prescribe these drugs together for us, knowing they shouldn't. :( As you know, I too am on both of these medications. (Norvasc & Bisoprolol).
Fatigue is a side effect of both of these drugs - so the lower the dose, the better off you'll be (in theory at least). The dizziness could be a result of your blood pressure being too low at times - I experience that when my blood pressure drops too much. What does your doctor say about that?
The ED is worrisome and difficult to avoid, especially with the BP meds. Norvasc has low incidence of sexual dysfunction -1-2%. The beta blocker is sure to contribute to a greater extent than the CCB. Ditto for Effexor, if you still take it (16%). Reducing your medication doses is sure to result in improvement in your side effects.
take care, Michael :)
flowergirl
cartner
03-08-2008, 05:09 AM
Hi flowergirl,
Thanks for your great post. I meant that my dr put me on 2.5mg of Zebeta and 5mg of Norvasc. I haven't talked with him about reducing Norvasc to 2.5mg, the tablet can be devided but still I'm not sure that I can do that. Please if you have read that 2.5mg of Norvasc is a good dose tell me so.
Yes Norvasc has nothing to do with ED, but Zebeta is :(. The question is, when I wean off it (when I get marry :D) Do I will reverse ED? I know that you read a lot and you must have more info about that.
What CHF means? Please can you explain what did you mean by "This drug combo can result in adverse cardiovascular effects, including CHF and severe hypotension. It can also increase serum concentration of the beta blocker by inhibiting CYP450." ? can this combo kill someone or what? :)
My reading this morning, before I take Zebeta, was 110/67 and 57 pulse. :( low which makes me dizzy.
By the way, I weaned off both Effexor and Xanax. Since I stopped Xanax I don't sleep at all :(, I hope this will change over the following few weeks.
Thanks for your great help,
Michael
Thanks for your great post. I meant that my dr put me on 2.5mg of Zebeta and 5mg of Norvasc. I haven't talked with him about reducing Norvasc to 2.5mg, the tablet can be devided but still I'm not sure that I can do that. Please if you have read that 2.5mg of Norvasc is a good dose tell me so.
Yes Norvasc has nothing to do with ED, but Zebeta is :(. The question is, when I wean off it (when I get marry :D) Do I will reverse ED? I know that you read a lot and you must have more info about that.
What CHF means? Please can you explain what did you mean by "This drug combo can result in adverse cardiovascular effects, including CHF and severe hypotension. It can also increase serum concentration of the beta blocker by inhibiting CYP450." ? can this combo kill someone or what? :)
My reading this morning, before I take Zebeta, was 110/67 and 57 pulse. :( low which makes me dizzy.
By the way, I weaned off both Effexor and Xanax. Since I stopped Xanax I don't sleep at all :(, I hope this will change over the following few weeks.
Thanks for your great help,
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-08-2008, 11:00 PM
Hi Michael, :)
Sorry to hear the meds (or lack thereof) are interfering with your sleep. It will take a while for your system to get used to being without them. Eventually, your insomnia will lessen and things will return back to normal.
You might remember from previous discussions that the CCBs can cause heart rhythm disturbances in some people. (that is why it is recommended that people taking this drug have regular ECGs) A therapy consisting of a combination of beta blockers and calcium channel blockers can result in additive reductions in heart rate, cardiac conduction and contractility. Sometimes some of these effects are desired - such as when treating chronic stable angina. At other times, they are not. Some people experience adverse effects, such as severe hypotension. You haven't had any problems on your low doses, so have nothing to worry about. The likelihood of adverse effects is greater with higher doses and in people with certain existing ventricular or conduction problems. Drug information sheets (and other sources) simply advise people not to take the two meds together.
Anyway, this combo has been effectively controlling your blood pressure, which is great. So why change the dose now? Wait until you've seen your doctor. If he OKs the reduction in meds, go ahead. You don't want to be treating yourself. That is our doctors' job. If your blood pressure is dropping too low at current doses, don't wait too long to see him!
As for the other side effects, perhaps you could eventually stop the beta blocker and add a very low dose of another medication (your doctor should be understanding and have a few helpful suggestions for tackling this). You could also increase your dose of the calcium channel blocker. (I would not recommend it due to its side effects at higher doses ) You seem to work well with your doctor. Share your concerns with him. He will do whatever he can to help. I hope you'll stop feeling dizzy. You could still be going through a withdrawal from your two potent medications - you had been on them for a long time so it may take a while.
take care,
flowergirl
Sorry to hear the meds (or lack thereof) are interfering with your sleep. It will take a while for your system to get used to being without them. Eventually, your insomnia will lessen and things will return back to normal.
You might remember from previous discussions that the CCBs can cause heart rhythm disturbances in some people. (that is why it is recommended that people taking this drug have regular ECGs) A therapy consisting of a combination of beta blockers and calcium channel blockers can result in additive reductions in heart rate, cardiac conduction and contractility. Sometimes some of these effects are desired - such as when treating chronic stable angina. At other times, they are not. Some people experience adverse effects, such as severe hypotension. You haven't had any problems on your low doses, so have nothing to worry about. The likelihood of adverse effects is greater with higher doses and in people with certain existing ventricular or conduction problems. Drug information sheets (and other sources) simply advise people not to take the two meds together.
Anyway, this combo has been effectively controlling your blood pressure, which is great. So why change the dose now? Wait until you've seen your doctor. If he OKs the reduction in meds, go ahead. You don't want to be treating yourself. That is our doctors' job. If your blood pressure is dropping too low at current doses, don't wait too long to see him!
As for the other side effects, perhaps you could eventually stop the beta blocker and add a very low dose of another medication (your doctor should be understanding and have a few helpful suggestions for tackling this). You could also increase your dose of the calcium channel blocker. (I would not recommend it due to its side effects at higher doses ) You seem to work well with your doctor. Share your concerns with him. He will do whatever he can to help. I hope you'll stop feeling dizzy. You could still be going through a withdrawal from your two potent medications - you had been on them for a long time so it may take a while.
take care,
flowergirl
cartner
03-09-2008, 10:32 AM
Thanks dear for your great post. Actually, I have tried 10 mg of Norvasc and I had no side effects at all. Maybe I will go back to it again, like 5mg at AM and another 5mg at night. I can't take any other drugs because all of them makes me more sick that I'm on BB and CCB. my average reading is 110/70, I think that is good.
Zebeta controls my heart rate, I used Magnesium supplements for that but I don't have any right now. I used to get them from the US because we don't have it here. It seems that Egyptians are only concerted about Vitamins and Calcium supplements only. We don't have Magnesium or Potassium in a stand-alone product.
Yes, I think I'm still suffering from Effexor and Xanax withdrawal side effects. But I'm a little better than last week :).
Thanks for your help,
Michael
Zebeta controls my heart rate, I used Magnesium supplements for that but I don't have any right now. I used to get them from the US because we don't have it here. It seems that Egyptians are only concerted about Vitamins and Calcium supplements only. We don't have Magnesium or Potassium in a stand-alone product.
Yes, I think I'm still suffering from Effexor and Xanax withdrawal side effects. But I'm a little better than last week :).
Thanks for your help,
Michael
cartner
03-09-2008, 04:11 PM
My blood pressure is 102/58 with pulse of 83. I took Zebeta exactly 12 hours ago, so I will not take Norvasc for tonight. :(
flowergirl2day
03-09-2008, 11:46 PM
Michael,
I'd say that your blood pressure is on the low side. You don't want your diastolic to drop much lower. You should call your doctor and let him know what your blood pressure reading is before taking any more medication. Do you get these low blood pressure readings often? I get them sometimes and much prefer the blood pressure spikes. The sudden dips in blood pressure are one of the adverse effects of either the combination of a calcium channel blocker and a beta blocker, or the CCB. I can't remember which, but have read about it in one of my books. If your blood pressure readings are consistently below normal, either your medication doses are too high, or you cannot tolerate this drug combo. You should contact your doctor today.
take care,
flowergirl
I'd say that your blood pressure is on the low side. You don't want your diastolic to drop much lower. You should call your doctor and let him know what your blood pressure reading is before taking any more medication. Do you get these low blood pressure readings often? I get them sometimes and much prefer the blood pressure spikes. The sudden dips in blood pressure are one of the adverse effects of either the combination of a calcium channel blocker and a beta blocker, or the CCB. I can't remember which, but have read about it in one of my books. If your blood pressure readings are consistently below normal, either your medication doses are too high, or you cannot tolerate this drug combo. You should contact your doctor today.
take care,
flowergirl
bethsheba
03-10-2008, 12:13 AM
...What CHF means?
It means "congestive heart failure".
...Since I stopped Xanax I don't sleep at all :(, I hope this will change over the following few weeks.
Michael,
Just for you info, I experienced several kinds of sleep problems with norvasc...I quit taking it because I didn't sleep well. I don't know if your other drugs can have that effect but I thought I'd let you know about norvasc just in case your sleep problems don't get better.
When I took my dose in the am, I would be real sleepy after lunch but although I couldn't stay awake, I couldn't sleep either. I tried taking the med at night but I would wake up about midnight and not get back to sleep until very early in the am. It took almost 4 weeks after I stopped taking the norvasc for my sleep to return to normal.
Bethsheba
It means "congestive heart failure".
...Since I stopped Xanax I don't sleep at all :(, I hope this will change over the following few weeks.
Michael,
Just for you info, I experienced several kinds of sleep problems with norvasc...I quit taking it because I didn't sleep well. I don't know if your other drugs can have that effect but I thought I'd let you know about norvasc just in case your sleep problems don't get better.
When I took my dose in the am, I would be real sleepy after lunch but although I couldn't stay awake, I couldn't sleep either. I tried taking the med at night but I would wake up about midnight and not get back to sleep until very early in the am. It took almost 4 weeks after I stopped taking the norvasc for my sleep to return to normal.
Bethsheba
cartner
03-10-2008, 03:50 AM
Thanks flowergirl and Bethsheba,
Actually Norvasc has no effects on my sleep at all, It's Xanax. Wow heart failture !!! I didn't know that. Now I really think that I should wean off Zebeta and stick to Norvasc, maybe I will up my dose to 10 mg again. :D
I really appreciate your help, thanks again.
Michael
Actually Norvasc has no effects on my sleep at all, It's Xanax. Wow heart failture !!! I didn't know that. Now I really think that I should wean off Zebeta and stick to Norvasc, maybe I will up my dose to 10 mg again. :D
I really appreciate your help, thanks again.
Michael
cartner
03-20-2008, 12:13 PM
Hi,
I'm off Zebeta and Xanax now, weaned off them in 10 days, my heart rate ranges from 96 to 114 and my blood presure is 130/84. :( I can't breathe at all and I feel that I'm so tired. When I was on Zebeta, after I weaned off Xanax also, my heart rate was very low 57 and even lower and my heart rate was lower than normal too.
Help guys what should I do :(
Michael
I'm off Zebeta and Xanax now, weaned off them in 10 days, my heart rate ranges from 96 to 114 and my blood presure is 130/84. :( I can't breathe at all and I feel that I'm so tired. When I was on Zebeta, after I weaned off Xanax also, my heart rate was very low 57 and even lower and my heart rate was lower than normal too.
Help guys what should I do :(
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-20-2008, 01:03 PM
Michael, :)
What medications has your doctor put you on now?
Sometimes it takes a while for the withdrawal symptoms to lessen and the heart rate to return to normal. What does your doctor say? Withdrawing from drugs is never without some problems, especially it they had been taken over a long period of time. Your doctor should watch you closely and assess your situation periodically while making sure your new medication is having the desired effect. (Some doctors don't).
Since you never mentioned having breathing problems before, make sure your doctor knows about them. How are your anxiety levels without the Xanax and the Effexor? What have these two meds been replaced with (if anything?) Perhaps that is the problem - whatever you're taking now might not be working properly. Anxiety will raise your blood pressure and can affect your breathing. Give your doctor a call.
I have to go to work now. Take care, Michael and try to have a good day. I'll check back later.
P.S. I think you should find one medication you can live with and stick with it. Changing meds frequently cannot be such a good thing. :(
flowergirl
What medications has your doctor put you on now?
Sometimes it takes a while for the withdrawal symptoms to lessen and the heart rate to return to normal. What does your doctor say? Withdrawing from drugs is never without some problems, especially it they had been taken over a long period of time. Your doctor should watch you closely and assess your situation periodically while making sure your new medication is having the desired effect. (Some doctors don't).
Since you never mentioned having breathing problems before, make sure your doctor knows about them. How are your anxiety levels without the Xanax and the Effexor? What have these two meds been replaced with (if anything?) Perhaps that is the problem - whatever you're taking now might not be working properly. Anxiety will raise your blood pressure and can affect your breathing. Give your doctor a call.
I have to go to work now. Take care, Michael and try to have a good day. I'll check back later.
P.S. I think you should find one medication you can live with and stick with it. Changing meds frequently cannot be such a good thing. :(
flowergirl
bethsheba
03-20-2008, 01:04 PM
..:( I can't breathe at all and I feel that I'm so tired. When I was on Zebeta, after I weaned off Xanax also, my heart rate was very low 57 and even lower and my heart rate was lower than normal too...Michael
I don't know anything about the xanax, but the zebeta is the same as bisoprolol, which is a beta blocker. Michael, it may take several weeks for you to feel better. When I quit my beta blocker, I had breathing problems for at least 4-6? weeks afterward. What does your doctor want your pressures and your heart rate to be? I'd keep an eye on both as sometimes after withdrawing from a beta, they can change temporarily before returning to normal.
Bethsheba
I don't know anything about the xanax, but the zebeta is the same as bisoprolol, which is a beta blocker. Michael, it may take several weeks for you to feel better. When I quit my beta blocker, I had breathing problems for at least 4-6? weeks afterward. What does your doctor want your pressures and your heart rate to be? I'd keep an eye on both as sometimes after withdrawing from a beta, they can change temporarily before returning to normal.
Bethsheba
cartner
03-20-2008, 02:11 PM
flowergirl, Bethsheba,
Thanks for your post, it was fast :). My dr took me off both Xanax and Effexor gradually in 2 weeks, then I told him that I want wean off Zebeta and I did in 10 days. I haven't replaced Xanax and Effexor with any other drug, I have depresion and anxiety but the medication side effects were killing me.
I think I got that higher heart rate after I watched the movie <about healthcare in the U.S.>
I know this board is not about politics but I'm talking about a situation which made me more depressed and sad.
I just took something similar to Xanax, it's called Prozolam, I asked a friend who is a pharmacist and I will see what would happen in few hours.
I will let you all know :)
Thanks again for your help,
Michael
Thanks for your post, it was fast :). My dr took me off both Xanax and Effexor gradually in 2 weeks, then I told him that I want wean off Zebeta and I did in 10 days. I haven't replaced Xanax and Effexor with any other drug, I have depresion and anxiety but the medication side effects were killing me.
I think I got that higher heart rate after I watched the movie <about healthcare in the U.S.>
I know this board is not about politics but I'm talking about a situation which made me more depressed and sad.
I just took something similar to Xanax, it's called Prozolam, I asked a friend who is a pharmacist and I will see what would happen in few hours.
I will let you all know :)
Thanks again for your help,
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-21-2008, 02:13 AM
Hi,
My dr took me off both Xanax and Effexor gradually in 2 weeks, then I told him that I want wean off Zebeta and I did in 10 days. I haven't replaced Xanax and Effexor with any other drug, I have depresion and anxiety but the medication side effects were killing me.
I know that your doctor has been treating you for a long time and you trust him. Are you taking anything for your high blood pressure now? See if it remains consistently elevated. If it does, you might have to consider going back on the antihypertensive meds. Do you feel your depression is worse without the meds? If the answer is yes, some intervention by your doctor is called for. He sounds like a very patient and understanding man. :)
I think I got that higher heart rate after I watched the movie <removed>, I got so depressed
Well, how about watching a comedy once in a while? We all need something to laugh at. Laughter is good for us. Do something for yourself that you enjoy, something special. Spend time with your friends. You will feel better. Spring is officially here (:). The nicer and warmer weather will help many of us beat any remaining winter blues. You might start seeing a gradual reduction in blood pressure since your blood pressure elevations are seasonal. I hope that the medication you took -Prozolam- helped.
take care,
flowergirl
My dr took me off both Xanax and Effexor gradually in 2 weeks, then I told him that I want wean off Zebeta and I did in 10 days. I haven't replaced Xanax and Effexor with any other drug, I have depresion and anxiety but the medication side effects were killing me.
I know that your doctor has been treating you for a long time and you trust him. Are you taking anything for your high blood pressure now? See if it remains consistently elevated. If it does, you might have to consider going back on the antihypertensive meds. Do you feel your depression is worse without the meds? If the answer is yes, some intervention by your doctor is called for. He sounds like a very patient and understanding man. :)
I think I got that higher heart rate after I watched the movie <removed>, I got so depressed
Well, how about watching a comedy once in a while? We all need something to laugh at. Laughter is good for us. Do something for yourself that you enjoy, something special. Spend time with your friends. You will feel better. Spring is officially here (:). The nicer and warmer weather will help many of us beat any remaining winter blues. You might start seeing a gradual reduction in blood pressure since your blood pressure elevations are seasonal. I hope that the medication you took -Prozolam- helped.
take care,
flowergirl
cartner
03-21-2008, 06:06 AM
Hi dear,
I'm still on the night-dose of Norvasc (5mg) that I used to take with Zebeta, but it's not effective alone and I started to get readings like 135/84 and once I got a very high reading, but just once since I weaned off Zebeta, 142/108. Now I got back to 5mg of Norvasc twice daily and my readings are great again.
No I don't feel more depressed than I was on the medications, in other words the medications didn't help with my depression at all. But it did help me with my Anxiety, still I can't take Effexor because it makes me sleep all day long. I'm thinking about going back to Xanax because when I took a similar med yesterday I felt calm and better.
I had no side effects when I was on Xanax, I think I will get back on it. About drs, I don't have health insurance and I spent all my money on blood tests, scans and doctors. I really mean it I spent all my money on my health although I don't have anything serious. I can't go to doctors often, anyway I'm not trying something new I will just go back to a combination that he put me on before.
Yes I need to watch some Comedy movie instead of that REAL documentary movies, although I'm not American and I don't even live in the US but I felt so bad for those people.
I can't thank you enough for your help, you people have done a lot for me :D. Jesus bless you all.
I just want ask you one last question if you don't mind flowergirl, I have no effects with Norvasc but have you read that it's not safe to take with Xanax?
Thanks for help,
Michael
I'm still on the night-dose of Norvasc (5mg) that I used to take with Zebeta, but it's not effective alone and I started to get readings like 135/84 and once I got a very high reading, but just once since I weaned off Zebeta, 142/108. Now I got back to 5mg of Norvasc twice daily and my readings are great again.
No I don't feel more depressed than I was on the medications, in other words the medications didn't help with my depression at all. But it did help me with my Anxiety, still I can't take Effexor because it makes me sleep all day long. I'm thinking about going back to Xanax because when I took a similar med yesterday I felt calm and better.
I had no side effects when I was on Xanax, I think I will get back on it. About drs, I don't have health insurance and I spent all my money on blood tests, scans and doctors. I really mean it I spent all my money on my health although I don't have anything serious. I can't go to doctors often, anyway I'm not trying something new I will just go back to a combination that he put me on before.
Yes I need to watch some Comedy movie instead of that REAL documentary movies, although I'm not American and I don't even live in the US but I felt so bad for those people.
I can't thank you enough for your help, you people have done a lot for me :D. Jesus bless you all.
I just want ask you one last question if you don't mind flowergirl, I have no effects with Norvasc but have you read that it's not safe to take with Xanax?
Thanks for help,
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-21-2008, 12:24 PM
Hi Michael, :)
I am glad to hear you are still on blood pressure medication. I checked several different sources, including my best drug book, for interactions between xanax and norvasc. You should be OK. None are listed.
However, as discussed in previous posts, your heart rate can be affected further by both of these medications. I would be somewhat concerned about the possible additive effects. Norvasc causes dose-related palpitations and dose-related changes in heart rhythm in some people. Xanax can cause tachycardia and heart palpitations. Your current heart rate is fast but still within an acceptable range. That might change with the additional dose of 5mg Norvasc and a new medication, xanax. I hope it doesn't.
I am sorry you don't have medical insurance. I wish you could be spending your money on something other than doctors and drugs. They don't come cheap.
Good luck with your treatment,
flowergirl
I am glad to hear you are still on blood pressure medication. I checked several different sources, including my best drug book, for interactions between xanax and norvasc. You should be OK. None are listed.
However, as discussed in previous posts, your heart rate can be affected further by both of these medications. I would be somewhat concerned about the possible additive effects. Norvasc causes dose-related palpitations and dose-related changes in heart rhythm in some people. Xanax can cause tachycardia and heart palpitations. Your current heart rate is fast but still within an acceptable range. That might change with the additional dose of 5mg Norvasc and a new medication, xanax. I hope it doesn't.
I am sorry you don't have medical insurance. I wish you could be spending your money on something other than doctors and drugs. They don't come cheap.
Good luck with your treatment,
flowergirl
cartner
03-21-2008, 12:33 PM
flowergirl,
I think that 2.5mg of Zebeta can control my blood pressure and my heart rate alone, without any other addition of drugs. How can I wean off Norvasc?
Help please :D
Michael
I think that 2.5mg of Zebeta can control my blood pressure and my heart rate alone, without any other addition of drugs. How can I wean off Norvasc?
Help please :D
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-22-2008, 01:13 AM
Michael, :)
how are you feeling today? How is your pulse and your blood pressure?
I share my personal experiences and opinions but am not qualified to give medical advice. Only your doctor can. I think he's been trying to help you get off the medications because he respects your wishes. Stopping all your medications might not have been the best thing to do. The underlying problems or conditions still exist. We can't make them go away.
If I forget to take my medications, I know it. I feel it. My blood pressure starts climbing, a headache develops and I feel ill. I know I can't just stop taking the meds because it would be asking for trouble. I did that with my calcium channel blocker and learned my lesson. That's my point - sometimes we really need our medication. :(
Your fast heart rate has to be taken into consideration when deciding on a medication. Though it is probably a withdrawal symptom, I think I remember you having similar problems in the past. The beta blocker and the CCB were prescribed to treat your hypertension as well as fast heart rate. Sometimes the CCB can have the opposite effect on the heart rate and will increase it instead of decreasing it. This is usually dose-dependent and happens more often in people with heart problems. I can't remember what dose of Zebeta you were on previously. Did it work OK? I think you stopped taking it because of its side effects. What was your heart rate while on the beta blocker?
There are no easy answers. I don't know if you can afford it, but you definitely need to talk to your doctor again. Isn't there any health insurance or some type of financial help available? I hope you can work something out. I am sorry I can't help much. Try to figure out which medication gave you the best results with fewer side effects. Most importantly, discuss all your options with the doctor.
I hope you feel better soon!
flowergirl
how are you feeling today? How is your pulse and your blood pressure?
I share my personal experiences and opinions but am not qualified to give medical advice. Only your doctor can. I think he's been trying to help you get off the medications because he respects your wishes. Stopping all your medications might not have been the best thing to do. The underlying problems or conditions still exist. We can't make them go away.
If I forget to take my medications, I know it. I feel it. My blood pressure starts climbing, a headache develops and I feel ill. I know I can't just stop taking the meds because it would be asking for trouble. I did that with my calcium channel blocker and learned my lesson. That's my point - sometimes we really need our medication. :(
Your fast heart rate has to be taken into consideration when deciding on a medication. Though it is probably a withdrawal symptom, I think I remember you having similar problems in the past. The beta blocker and the CCB were prescribed to treat your hypertension as well as fast heart rate. Sometimes the CCB can have the opposite effect on the heart rate and will increase it instead of decreasing it. This is usually dose-dependent and happens more often in people with heart problems. I can't remember what dose of Zebeta you were on previously. Did it work OK? I think you stopped taking it because of its side effects. What was your heart rate while on the beta blocker?
There are no easy answers. I don't know if you can afford it, but you definitely need to talk to your doctor again. Isn't there any health insurance or some type of financial help available? I hope you can work something out. I am sorry I can't help much. Try to figure out which medication gave you the best results with fewer side effects. Most importantly, discuss all your options with the doctor.
I hope you feel better soon!
flowergirl
cartner
03-22-2008, 05:05 AM
Hi flowergirl,
I'm on Norvasc 5mg only today, took 10mg for the last couple of days. My heart rate is 80+ and I can't breathe because of that. I take about 5 readings everyday, when everything is ok I just take 1 reading.
About Zebeta, I used to take 5mg for 3.5 years but that was before I use Diltiazem which was good. With Norvasc I had 2.5 mg of Zebeta, but my blood pressure was too low as well as my heart rate.
I was thinking that it might be a withdrawal effect too, Zebeta again :(. So I will wait for 1 week before anything, I'm back to Magnesium and it's not working like it used before. Anyway, today I feel better thanks to Jesus.
I can't thank you enough flowergirl, you are a great helping person.
Thanks again,
Michael
I'm on Norvasc 5mg only today, took 10mg for the last couple of days. My heart rate is 80+ and I can't breathe because of that. I take about 5 readings everyday, when everything is ok I just take 1 reading.
About Zebeta, I used to take 5mg for 3.5 years but that was before I use Diltiazem which was good. With Norvasc I had 2.5 mg of Zebeta, but my blood pressure was too low as well as my heart rate.
I was thinking that it might be a withdrawal effect too, Zebeta again :(. So I will wait for 1 week before anything, I'm back to Magnesium and it's not working like it used before. Anyway, today I feel better thanks to Jesus.
I can't thank you enough flowergirl, you are a great helping person.
Thanks again,
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-22-2008, 12:40 PM
Michael, :)
I am so glad to hear you're feeling better! All of us would prefer instant results but that's not how our bodies work. Finding what works and what doesn't is time-consuming and requires a lot of patience. You have a good understanding of how the meds you've tried work and what effect they have on your body. That is very important. Knowing what to expect from which drug helps us recognize adverse affects when and if they occur. Based on their severity and potential for causing damage with long-term therapy, we and our doctors can then decide whether a change in medication is warranted.
Regardless of which medication you go with, try to gradually reduce your anxiety levels. If exercise makes you good, spend more time at the gym. If you can't handle it right now because of your breathing difficulties, go for walks. Spending time outdoors always works for me and makes me feel great. Do something you really enjoy. It will help you feel much beter. :)
Good luck,
flowergirl
I am so glad to hear you're feeling better! All of us would prefer instant results but that's not how our bodies work. Finding what works and what doesn't is time-consuming and requires a lot of patience. You have a good understanding of how the meds you've tried work and what effect they have on your body. That is very important. Knowing what to expect from which drug helps us recognize adverse affects when and if they occur. Based on their severity and potential for causing damage with long-term therapy, we and our doctors can then decide whether a change in medication is warranted.
Regardless of which medication you go with, try to gradually reduce your anxiety levels. If exercise makes you good, spend more time at the gym. If you can't handle it right now because of your breathing difficulties, go for walks. Spending time outdoors always works for me and makes me feel great. Do something you really enjoy. It will help you feel much beter. :)
Good luck,
flowergirl
cartner
03-22-2008, 09:53 PM
flowergirl,
Thank you very much for your care and your support. Yes, I'm doing fine now. But I'm still a little confused about 5mg or up the dose to 10mg. The dr didn't mind, few months ago, about 10mg. So I will stick to the 5mg for a while and if it didn't work as I want I will up it again.
I can't walk much before I have a torn cartilage in my knee, and I can't exercise because I have an injuried shoulder (dislocated twice before). I think this is one of the biggest problems I'm facing, but I'm sure that god will solve those problems at the right time. I don't have health insurrance and those surgeries cost a lot, I go out once every week and that is about it.
I will keep you posted with my readings on 5mg of Norvasc, thanks again for your great help :D.
Michael
Thank you very much for your care and your support. Yes, I'm doing fine now. But I'm still a little confused about 5mg or up the dose to 10mg. The dr didn't mind, few months ago, about 10mg. So I will stick to the 5mg for a while and if it didn't work as I want I will up it again.
I can't walk much before I have a torn cartilage in my knee, and I can't exercise because I have an injuried shoulder (dislocated twice before). I think this is one of the biggest problems I'm facing, but I'm sure that god will solve those problems at the right time. I don't have health insurrance and those surgeries cost a lot, I go out once every week and that is about it.
I will keep you posted with my readings on 5mg of Norvasc, thanks again for your great help :D.
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-23-2008, 08:17 PM
Michael,
I am sorry I forgot about your knee and shoulder injuries. You had mentioned them before more than once. No wonder your anxiety levels soared. You've had that taken care of, thank goodness. Concentrate on your recovery, staying calm and keeping your stress and anxiety levels as low as possible.
Best of luck, :angel:
flowergirl
I am sorry I forgot about your knee and shoulder injuries. You had mentioned them before more than once. No wonder your anxiety levels soared. You've had that taken care of, thank goodness. Concentrate on your recovery, staying calm and keeping your stress and anxiety levels as low as possible.
Best of luck, :angel:
flowergirl
cartner
03-24-2008, 07:44 AM
No I haven't had any treatment for my knee and shoulder injuries, it's way too expensive for me :). Anyway, I will be fine because I don't go out much. 5mg of Norvasc was not enough so I'm on 10mg now, the question should I take it at one dose or make it on 2 doses?
Thanks again for your great help,
Michael
Thanks again for your great help,
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-24-2008, 12:34 PM
Hi Michael, :)
The dosing of Norvasc for both angina and hypertension is 5-10mg once a day. However, I go by my blood pressure response (with my doctor's knowledge). If I take all my meds in the morning, I do not get a 24 hour control and my blood pressure is too high at bedtime. I've split some of my doses and take 5mg of Norvasc and 10mg of Ramipril at night. Taken this way my meds give a good blood pressure control round the clock.
In general, the number of doses of medication needed each day depends on the strength of medication and the medical problem being treated. You will probably find that the 10mg Norvasc taken once daily gives you an adequate blood pressure control.
P.S. Just thought of something...if your pulse drops to less than 50 bpm, do not take your medication. Too slow a pulse rate will cause circulation problems. Should that ever happen, call a doctor instead for an advice.
take care,
flowergirl
The dosing of Norvasc for both angina and hypertension is 5-10mg once a day. However, I go by my blood pressure response (with my doctor's knowledge). If I take all my meds in the morning, I do not get a 24 hour control and my blood pressure is too high at bedtime. I've split some of my doses and take 5mg of Norvasc and 10mg of Ramipril at night. Taken this way my meds give a good blood pressure control round the clock.
In general, the number of doses of medication needed each day depends on the strength of medication and the medical problem being treated. You will probably find that the 10mg Norvasc taken once daily gives you an adequate blood pressure control.
P.S. Just thought of something...if your pulse drops to less than 50 bpm, do not take your medication. Too slow a pulse rate will cause circulation problems. Should that ever happen, call a doctor instead for an advice.
take care,
flowergirl
cartner
03-25-2008, 05:51 AM
flowergirl,
I remember that my dr wanted me to take 5mg every 12 hours, also I remember that when I took the whole 10mg I got a better reading. Anyway, I need to investigate this more because it might be losing its effect at night or so. My heart rate now is 80-90, still high :(, but it wasn't before I take Effexor. I think I'm having withdrawal side effects, after all I stopped 3 medications in 2 months. Effexor, Xanax and now Zebeta. In a few days I will know if taking the whole 10mg of Norvasc at once or split the dose, my dr didn't mind me doing that.
I can't thank you enough for your help :), god bless you.
Michael
I remember that my dr wanted me to take 5mg every 12 hours, also I remember that when I took the whole 10mg I got a better reading. Anyway, I need to investigate this more because it might be losing its effect at night or so. My heart rate now is 80-90, still high :(, but it wasn't before I take Effexor. I think I'm having withdrawal side effects, after all I stopped 3 medications in 2 months. Effexor, Xanax and now Zebeta. In a few days I will know if taking the whole 10mg of Norvasc at once or split the dose, my dr didn't mind me doing that.
I can't thank you enough for your help :), god bless you.
Michael
flowergirl2day
03-25-2008, 10:39 AM
Michael,
I think you are doing great, considering you have managed to discontinue several of these heavy-duty medications. That's not easily accomplished! You will feel so much better in the long run. Give yourself plenty of time and keep that blood pressure down. Your heart rate seems to be getting better already. :)
I am glad I could help. Please stay in touch. Best of luck,
flowergirl
I think you are doing great, considering you have managed to discontinue several of these heavy-duty medications. That's not easily accomplished! You will feel so much better in the long run. Give yourself plenty of time and keep that blood pressure down. Your heart rate seems to be getting better already. :)
I am glad I could help. Please stay in touch. Best of luck,
flowergirl
cartner
03-25-2008, 12:22 PM
Thanks dear, I hope I will feel better soon. I will keep you posted :D.
Michael
Michael