Side effects of Bystolic

[chrisr]

Thank you for taking my question.
I have recently (about 6 weeks) been prescribed the new Betablocker Bystolic at 5mg/day instead of Coreg 6.125mg. Initially it has slightly reduced my heart palpitations which are less forceful, stopped some irregular or PACs and cut out the dreaming side effect of Coreg. However recently I have noticed that the color of my blood (taken to test blood sugar) is a distinct chocolate-brown color similar to whenever I have had to use Nitro tabs/patches for angina attacks. I have also been affected by regular bouts of diarrhea. Are these side effects to be concerned about given the somewhat more beneficial effects and if so what could I do about them?
Appreciate your comments and those of anyone else affected.
Thanks,
ChrisR

[Marilyn926]

While taking Bystolic 5mg a couple things occurred that were not on the list of common side effects for this drug.

Is the following normal?

Blood pressure readings taken in the mornings dropped to the 120s systolic, which was great. But my afternoon blood pressure readings increased from 150s systolic to 170s-180s systolic. The Diastolic remained the same - in the 70s.

Second item, with no change in eating habits I had a five pound weight gain within two weeks.
Marilyn

[Cleveland Clinic]

The chocolate-brown color of blood is a specific that is typically associated with methemoglobinemia.  It's very interesting that you have observed that.  The condition is related to decreased levels of reducing agents in your blood.  Nitroglycerin is known as a drug that reduces levels of those reducing agents.  Others include antibiotics and numbing agents such as lidocaine.  I am not very familiar with the new beta blocker that you are on currently, however, it is very possible that this may be one of its side-effects.  As long as your are not fatigued or short of breath you are ok now, but if this truly is case you will have to stop this medication.  I am not sure how the diarrhea fits into all this.  I would mention this to your physician.

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[Twilight_Princess]

I take Bystolic too and I have also noticed a weight gain. I too haven't changed my eating habits. I am beginning to think it's the Bystolic because I usually can lose weight very easily, but I can't lose it now at all no matter what I do.

You mentioned your systolic readings, mine do the same thing in the afternoons.