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ZIAC®
Rx only
Revised JULY 2009
11001496
DESCRIPTION
Ziac (bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide) is indicated for the treatment of
hypertension. It combines two antihypertensive agents in a once-daily dosage: a synthetic beta1
selective (cardioselective) adrenoceptor blocking agent (bisoprolol fumarate) and a
benzothiadiazine diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide).
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
Bisoprolol fumarate and HCTZ have been used individually and in combination for the treatment
of hypertension. The antihypertensive effects of these agents are additive; HCTZ 6.25 mg
significantly increases the antihypertensive effect of bisoprolol fumarate. The incidence of
hypokalemia with the bisoprolol fumarate and HCTZ 6.25 mg combination (B/H) is significantly
lower than with HCTZ 25 mg. In clinical trials of Ziac, mean changes in serum potassium for
patients treated with Ziac 2.5/6.25 mg, 5/6.25 mg or 10/6.25 mg or placebo were less than ± 0.1
mEq/L. Mean changes in serum potassium for patients treated with any dose of bisoprolol in
combination with HCTZ 25 mg ranged from -0.1 to -0.3 mEq/L.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
The absolute bioavailability after a 10 mg oral dose of bisoprolol fumarate is about 80%. The
first pass metabolism of bisoprolol fumarate is about 20%.
The pharmacokinetic profile of bisoprolol fumarate has been examined following single doses
and at steady state. Binding to serum proteins is approximately 30%. Peak plasma
concentrations occur within 2-4 hours of dosing with 2.5 to 20 mg, and mean peak values range
from 9.0 ng/mL at 2.5 mg to 70 ng/mL at 20 mg. Once-daily dosing with bisoprolol fumarate
results in less than two-fold intersubject variation in peak plasma concentrations. Plasma
concentrations are proportional to the administered dose in the range of 2.5 to 20 mg. The
plasma elimination half-life is 9-12 hours and is slightly longer in elderly patients, in part
because of decreased renal function. Steady state is attained within 5 days with once-daily
dosing. In both young and elderly populations, plasma accumulation is low; the accumulation
factor ranges from 1.1 to 1.3, and is what would be expected from the half-life and once-daily
dosing. Bisoprolol is eliminated equally by renal and nonrenal pathways with about 50% of the
dose appearing unchanged in the urine and the remainder in the form of inactive metabolites. In
humans, the known metabolites are labile or have no known pharmacologic activity. Less than
2% of the dose is excreted in the feces. The pharmacokinetic characteristics of the two
enantiomers are similar. Bisoprolol is not metabolized by cytochrome P450 II D6 (debrisoquin
hydroxylase).
In subjects with creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/min, the plasma half-life is increased
approximately threefold compared to healthy subjects.
In patients with liver cirrhosis, the rate of elimination of bisoprolol is more variable and
significantly slower than that in healthy subjects, with a plasma half-life ranging from 8 to 22
hours.
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In elderly subjects, mean plasma concentrations at steady state are increased, in part attributed to
lower creatinine clearance; however, no significant differences in the degree of bisoprolol
accumulation is found between young and elderly populations.
Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide is well absorbed (65%-75%) following oral administration. Absorption of
hydrochlorothiazide is reduced in patients with congestive heart failure.
Peak plasma concentrations are observed within 1-5 hours of dosing, and range from 70-490
ng/mL following oral doses of 12.5-100 mg. Plasma concentrations are linearly related to the
administered dose. Concentrations of hydrochlorothiazide are 1.6-1.8 times higher in whole
blood than in plasma. Binding to serum proteins has been reported to be approximately 40% to
68%. The plasma elimination half-life has been reported to be 6-15 hours. Hydrochlorothiazide
is eliminated primarily by renal pathways. Following oral doses of 12.5-100 mg, 55%-77% of
the administered dose appears in urine and greater than 95% of the absorbed dose is excreted in
urine as unchanged drug. Plasma concentrations of hydrochlorothiazide are increased and the
elimination half-life is prolonged in patients with renal disease.
Pharmacodynamics
Bisoprolol Fumarate
Findings in clinical hemodynamics studies with bisoprolol fumarate are similar to those observed
with other beta-blockers. The most prominent effect is the negative chronotropic effect, giving a
reduction in resting and exercise heart rate. There is a fall in resting and exercise cardiac output
with little observed change in stroke volume, and only a small increase in right atrial pressure, or
pulmonary capillary wedge pressure at rest or during exercise.
In controlled clinical trials, bisoprolol fumarate given as a single daily dose has been shown to be
an effective antihypertensive agent when used alone or concomitantly with thiazide diuretics (see
CLINICAL STUDIES).
The mechanism of bisoprolol fumarate’s antihypertensive effect has not been completely
established. Factors that may be involved include:
Beta1-selectivity of bisoprolol fumarate has been demonstrated in both animal and human
studies. No effects at therapeutic doses on beta2-adrenoreceptor density have been observed.
Pulmonary function studies have been conducted in healthy volunteers, asthmatics, and patients
with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Doses of bisoprolol fumarate ranged from
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5 to 60 mg, atenolol from 50 to 200 mg, metoprolol from 100 to 200 mg, and propranolol from
40 to 80 mg. In some studies, slight, asymptomatic increases in airway resistance (AWR) and
decreases in forced expiratory volume (FEV1) were observed with doses of bisoprolol fumarate
20 mg and higher, similar to the small increases in AWR noted with other cardioselective beta-
blocking agents. The changes induced by beta-blockade with all agents were reversed by
bronchodilator therapy.
Hydrochlorothiazide
Acute effects of thiazides are thought to result from a reduction in blood volume and cardiac
output, secondary to a natriuretic effect, although a direct vasodilatory mechanism has also been
proposed. With chronic administration, plasma volume returns toward normal, but peripheral
vascular resistance is decreased.
Thiazides do not affect normal blood pressure. Onset of action occurs within 2 hours of dosing,
peak effect is observed at about 4 hours, and activity persists for up to 24 hours.
CLINICAL STUDIES
In controlled clinical trials, bisoprolol fumarate/hydrochlorothiazide 6.25 mg has been shown to
reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure throughout a 24-hour period when administered once
daily. The effects on systolic and diastolic blood pressure reduction of the combination of
bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide were additive. Further, treatment effects were
consistent across age groups (<60, ≥ 60 years), racial groups (black, nonblack), and gender
(male, female).
Blood pressure responses were seen within 1 week of treatment but the maximum effect was
apparent after 2 to 3 weeks of treatment. Overall, significantly greater blood pressure reductions
were observed on Ziac than on placebo. Further, blood pressure reductions were significantly
greater for each of the bisoprolol fumarate plus hydrochlorothiazide combinations than for either
of the components used alone regardless of race, age, or gender. There were no significant
differences in response between black and nonblack patients.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Ziac is contraindicated in patients in cardiogenic shock, overt cardiac failure (see WARNINGS),
second or third degree AV block, marked sinus bradycardia, anuria, and hypersensitivity to either
component of this product or to other sulfonamide-derived drugs.
WARNINGS
Cardiac Failure
In general, beta-blocking agents should be avoided in patients with overt congestive failure;
however, in some patients with compensated cardiac failure, it may be necessary to utilize these
agents. In such situations, they must be used cautiously.
Bronchospastic Disease
PATIENTS WITH BRONCHOSPASTIC PULMONARY DISEASE SHOULD, IN
GENERAL, NOT RECEIVE BETA-BLOCKERS. Because of the relative beta1-selectivity
of bisoprolol fumarate, Ziac may be used with caution in patients with bronchospastic
disease who do not respond to, or who cannot tolerate other antihypertensive treatment.
Since beta1-selectivity is not absolute, the lowest possible dose of Ziac should be used. A
beta2 agonist (bronchodilator) should be made available.
Thyrotoxicosis
Beta-adrenergic blockade may mask clinical signs of hyperthyroidism, such as tachycardia.
Abrupt withdrawal of beta-blockade may be followed by an exacerbation of the symptoms of
hyperthyroidism or may precipitate thyroid storm.
Renal Disease
Cumulative effects of the thiazides may develop in patients with impaired renal function. In such
patients, thiazides may precipitate azotemia. In subjects with creatinine clearance less than 40
mL/min, the plasma half-life of bisoprolol fumarate is increased up to threefold, as compared to
healthy subjects. If progressive renal impairment becomes apparent, Ziac should be discontinued
(See Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism).
Hepatic Disease
Ziac should be used with caution in patients with impaired hepatic function or progressive liver
disease. Thiazides may alter fluid and electrolyte balance, which may precipitate hepatic coma.
Also, elimination of bisoprolol fumarate is significantly slower in patients with cirrhosis than in
healthy subjects (See Pharmacokinetics and Metabolism).
PRECAUTIONS
General
Warning signs or symptoms of fluid and electrolyte imbalance include dryness of mouth, thirst,
weakness, lethargy, drowsiness, restlessness, muscle pains or cramps, muscular fatigue,
hypotension, oliguria, tachycardia, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and
vomiting.
Hypokalemia may develop, especially with brisk diuresis when severe cirrhosis is present, during
concomitant use of corticosteroids or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or after prolonged
therapy. Interference with adequate oral electrolyte intake will also contribute to hypokalemia.
Hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia can provoke ventricular arrhythmias or sensitize or
exaggerate the response of the heart to the toxic effects of digitalis. Hypokalemia may be
avoided or treated by potassium supplementation or increased intake of potassium-rich foods.
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Dilutional hyponatremia may occur in edematous patients in hot weather; appropriate therapy is
water restriction rather than salt administration, except in rare instances when the hyponatremia
is life threatening. In actual salt depletion, appropriate replacement is the therapy of choice.
Parathyroid Disease
Calcium excretion is decreased by thiazides, and pathologic changes in the parathyroid glands,
with hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia, have been observed in a few patients on prolonged
thiazide therapy.
Hyperuricemia
Hyperuricemia or acute gout may be precipitated in certain patients receiving thiazide diuretics.
Bisoprolol fumarate, alone or in combination with HCTZ, has been associated with increases in
uric acid; however, in U.S. clinical trials, the incidence of treatment-related increases in uric acid
was higher during therapy with HCTZ 25 mg (25%) than with B/H 6.25 mg (10%). Because of
the very low dose of HCTZ employed, hyperuricemia may be less likely with Ziac.
Drug Interactions
Ziac may potentiate the action of other antihypertensive agents used concomitantly. Ziac should
not be combined with other beta-blocking agents. Patients receiving catecholamine-depleting
drugs, such as reserpine or guanethidine, should be closely monitored because the added beta-
adrenergic blocking action of bisoprolol fumarate may produce excessive reduction of
sympathetic activity. In patients receiving concurrent therapy with clonidine, if therapy is to be
discontinued, it is suggested that Ziac be discontinued for several days before the withdrawal of
clonidine.
Ziac should be used with caution when myocardial depressants or inhibitors of AV conduction,
such as certain calcium antagonists (particularly of the phenylalkylamine [verapamil] and
benzothiazepine [diltiazem] classes), or antiarrhythmic agents, such as disopyramide, are used
concurrently.
Both digitalis glycosides and beta-blockers slow atrioventricular conduction and decrease heart
rate. Concomitant use can increase the risk of bradycardia.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
Concurrent use of rifampin increases the metabolic clearance of bisoprolol fumarate, shortening
its elimination half-life; however, initial dose modification is generally not necessary.
Pharmacokinetic studies document no clinically relevant interactions with other agents given
concomitantly, including thiazide diuretics and cimetidine. There was no effect of bisoprolol
fumarate on prothrombin times in patients on stable doses of warfarin.
therapeutic. Such patients may be unresponsive to the usual doses of epinephrine used to treat
allergic reactions.
Hydrochlorothiazide
When given concurrently the following drugs may interact with thiazide diuretics:
Antidiabetic drugs (oral agents and insulin) - dosage adjustment of the antidiabetic drug may be
required.
Pressor amines (e.g., norepinephrine) - possible decreased response to pressor amines but not
sufficient to preclude their use.
Lithium - generally should not be given with diuretics. Diuretic agents reduce the renal
clearance of lithium and add a high risk of lithium toxicity. Refer to the package insert for
lithium preparations before use of such preparations with Ziac.
In patients receiving thiazides, sensitivity reactions may occur with or without a history of
allergy or bronchial asthma. Photosensitivity reactions and possible exacerbation or activation of
systemic lupus erythematosus have been reported in patients receiving thiazides. The
antihypertensive effects of thiazides may be enhanced in the post-sympathectomy patient.
Because it includes a thiazide, Ziac should be discontinued before carrying out tests for
parathyroid function (see PRECAUTIONS - Parathyroid Disease).
Patients should know how they react to this medicine before they operate automobiles and
machinery or engage in other tasks requiring alertness. Patients should be advised that
photosensitivity reactions have been reported with thiazides.
Carcinogenesis
Ziac
Long-term studies have not been conducted with the bisoprolol fumarate/hydrochlorothiazide
combination.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
Long-term studies were conducted with oral bisoprolol fumarate administered in the feed of mice
(20 and 24 months) and rats (26 months). No evidence of carcinogenic potential was seen in
mice dosed up to 250 mg/kg/day or rats dosed up to 125 mg/kg/day. On a body weight basis,
these doses are 625 and 312 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose
(MRHD) of 20 mg, or 0.4 mg/kg/day, based on 50 kg individuals; on a body surface area basis,
these doses are 59 times (mice) and 64 times (rats) the MRHD.
Hydrochlorothiazide
Two-year feeding studies in mice and rats, conducted under the auspices of the National
Toxicology Program (NTP), treated mice and rats with doses of hydrochlorothiazide up to 600
and 100 mg/kg/day, respectively. On a body weight basis, these doses are 2400 times (in mice)
and 400 times (in rats) the MRHD of hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg/day) in Ziac (bisoprolol
fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide). On a body surface area basis, these doses are 226 times (in
mice) and 82 times (in rats) the MRHD. These studies uncovered no evidence of carcinogenic
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potential of hydrochlorothiazide in rats or female mice, but there was equivocal evidence of
hepatocarcinogenicity in male mice.
Mutagenesis
Ziac
The mutagenic potential of the bisoprolol fumarate/hydrochlorothiazide combination was
evaluated in the microbial mutagenicity (Ames) test, the point mutation and chromosomal
aberration assays in Chinese hamster V79 cells, and the micronucleus test in mice. There was no
evidence of mutagenic potential in these in vitro and in vivo assays.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
The mutagenic potential of bisoprolol fumarate was evaluated in the microbial mutagenicity
(Ames) test, the point mutation and chromosome aberration assays in Chinese hamster V79 cells,
the unscheduled DNA synthesis test, the micronucleus test in mice, and the cytogenetics assay in
rats. There was no evidence of mutagenic potential in these in vitro and in vivo assays.
Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide was not genotoxic in in vitro assays using strains TA 98, TA 100, TA 1535,
TA 1537 and TA 1538 of Salmonella typhimurium (the Ames test); in the Chinese Hamster
Ovary (CHO) test for chromosomal aberrations; or in in vivo assays using mouse germinal cell
chromosomes, Chinese hamster bone marrow chromosomes, and the Drosophila sex-linked
recessive lethal trait gene. Positive test results were obtained in the in vitro CHO Sister
Chromatid Exchange (clastogenicity) test and in the mouse Lymphoma Cell (mutagenicity)
assays, using concentrations of hydrochlorothiazide of 43-1300 µg/mL. Positive test results
were also obtained in the Aspergillus nidulans non-disjunction assay, using an unspecified
concentration of hydrochlorothiazide.
Impairment of Fertility
Ziac
Reproduction studies in rats did not show any impairment of fertility with the bisoprolol
fumarate/hydrochlorothiazide combination doses containing up to 30 mg/kg/day of bisoprolol
fumarate in combination with 75 mg/kg/day of hydrochlorothiazide. On a body weight basis,
these doses are 75 and 300 times, respectively, the MRHD of bisoprolol fumarate and
hydrochlorothiazide. On a body surface area basis, these study doses are 15 and 62 times,
respectively, MRHD.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
Reproduction studies in rats did not show any impairment of fertility at doses up to 150
mg/kg/day of bisoprolol fumarate, or 375 and 77 times the MRHD on the basis of body weight
and body surface area, respectively.
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Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide had no adverse effects on the fertility of mice and rats of either sex in
studies wherein these species were exposed, via their diet, to doses of up to 100 and 4
mg/kg/day, respectively, prior to mating and throughout gestation. Corresponding multiples of
maximum recommended human doses are 400 (mice) and 16 (rats) on the basis of body weight
and 38 (mice) and 3.3 (rats) on the basis of body surface area.
Pregnancy
Ziac
In rats, the bisoprolol fumarate/hydrochlorothiazide (B/H) combination was not teratogenic at
doses up to 51.4 mg/kg/day of bisoprolol fumarate in combination with 128.6 mg/kg/day of
hydrochlorothiazide. Bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide doses used in the rat study
are, as multiples of the MRHD in the combination, 129 and 514 times greater, respectively, on a
body weight basis, and 26 and 106 times greater, respectively, on the basis of body surface area.
The drug combination was maternotoxic (decreased body weight and food consumption) at
B5.7/H14.3 (mg/kg/day) and higher, and fetotoxic (increased late resorptions) at B17.1/H42.9
(mg/kg/day) and higher. Maternotoxicity was present at 14/57 times the MRHD of B/H,
respectively, on a body weight basis, and 3/12 times the MRHD of B/H doses, respectively, on
the basis of body surface area. Fetotoxicity was present at 43/172 times the MRHD of B/H,
respectively, on a body weight basis, and 9/35 times the MRHD of B/H doses, respectively, on
the basis of body surface area. In rabbits, the B/H combination was not teratogenic at doses of
B10/H25 (mg/kg/day). Bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide used in the rabbit study
were not teratogenic at 25/100 times the B/H MRHD, respectively, on a body weight basis, and
10/40 times the B/H MRHD, respectively, on the basis of body surface area. The drug
combination was maternotoxic (decreased body weight) at B1/H2.5 (mg/kg/day) and higher, and
fetotoxic (increased resorptions) at B10/H25 (mg/kg/day). The multiples of the MRHD for the
B/H combination that were maternotoxic are, respectively, 2.5/10 (on the basis of body weight)
and 1/4 (on the basis of body surface area), and for fetotoxicity were, respectively 25/100 (on the
basis of body weight) and 10/40 (on the basis of body surface area).
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies with Ziac in pregnant women. Ziac
(bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide) should be used during pregnancy only if the
potential benefit justifies the risk to the fetus.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
In rats, bisoprolol fumarate was not teratogenic at doses up to 150 mg/kg/day, which were 375
and 77 times the MRHD on the basis of body weight and body surface area, respectively.
Bisoprolol fumarate was fetotoxic (increased late resorptions) at 50 mg/kg/day and maternotoxic
(decreased food intake and body weight gain) at 150 mg/kg/day. The fetotoxicity in rats
occurred at 125 times the MRHD on a body weight basis and 26 times the MRHD on the basis of
body surface area. The maternotoxicity occurred at 375 times the MRHD on a body weight basis
and 77 times the MRHD on the basis of body surface area. In rabbits, bisoprolol fumarate was
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not teratogenic at doses up to 12.5 mg/kg/day, which is 31 and 12 times the MRHD based on
body weight and body surface area, respectively, but was embryolethal (increased early
resorptions) at 12.5 mg/kg/day.
Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide was orally administered to pregnant mice and rats during respective periods
of major organogenesis at doses up to 3000 and 1000 mg/kg/day, respectively. At these doses,
which are multiples of the MRHD equal to 12,000 for mice and 4000 for rats, based on body
weight, and equal to 1129 for mice and 824 for rats, based on body surface area, there was no
evidence of harm to the fetus. There are, however, no adequate and well-controlled studies in
pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human
response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Nonteratogenic Effects
Thiazides cross the placental barrier and appear in the cord blood. The use of thiazides in
pregnant women requires that the anticipated benefit be weighed against possible hazards to the
fetus. These hazards include fetal or neonatal jaundice, pancreatitis, thrombocytopenia, and
possibly other adverse reactions that have occurred in the adult.
Nursing Mothers
Bisoprolol fumarate alone or in combination with HCTZ has not been studied in nursing
mothers. Thiazides are excreted in human breast milk. Small amounts of bisoprolol fumarate
(<2% of the dose) have been detected in the milk of lactating rats. Because of the potential for
serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue
nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness of Ziac in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric Use
In clinical trials, at least 270 patients treated with bisoprolol fumarate plus HCTZ were 60 years
of age or older. HCTZ added significantly to the antihypertensive effect of bisoprolol in elderly
hypertensive patients. No overall differences in effectiveness or safety were observed between
these patients and younger patients. Other reported clinical experience has not identified
differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some
older individuals cannot be ruled out.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
Ziac
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Bisoprolol fumarate/HCTZ 6.25 mg is well tolerated in most patients. Most adverse effects
(AEs) have been mild and transient. In more than 65,000 patients treated worldwide with
bisoprolol fumarate, occurrences of bronchospasm have been rare. Discontinuation rates for AEs
were similar for bisoprolol fumarate/HCTZ 6.25 mg and placebo-treated patients.
In the United States, 252 patients received bisoprolol fumarate (2.5, 5, 10, or 40 mg)/HCTZ 6.25
mg and 144 patients received placebo in two controlled trials. In Study 1, bisoprolol fumarate
5/HCTZ 6.25 mg was administered for 4 weeks. In Study 2, bisoprolol fumarate 2.5, 10, or
40/HCTZ 6.25 mg was administered for 12 weeks. All adverse experiences, whether drug
related or not, and drug related adverse experiences in patients treated with bisoprolol fumarate
2.5-10/HCTZ 6.25 mg, reported during comparable, 4 week treatment periods by at least 2% of
bisoprolol fumarate/HCTZ 6.25 mg-treated patients (plus additional selected adverse
experiences) are presented in the following table:
Other adverse experiences that have been reported with the individual components are listed
below.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
In clinical trials worldwide, or in postmarketing experience, a variety of other AEs, in addition to
those listed above, have been reported. While in many cases it is not known whether a causal
relationship exists between bisoprolol and these AEs, they are listed to alert the physician to a
possible relationship.
Cardiovascular
Bradycardia, palpitations and other rhythm disturbances, cold extremities, claudication,
hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, chest pain, congestive heart failure, dyspnea on exertion.
Gastrointestinal
Gastric/epigastric/abdominal pain, peptic ulcer, gastritis, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
constipation, dry mouth.
Musculoskeletal
Arthralgia, muscle/joint pain, back/neck pain, muscle cramps, twitching/tremor.
Skin
Rash, acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin irritation, pruritus, purpura, flushing, sweating, alopecia,
dermatitis, exfoliative dermatitis (very rarely), cutaneous vaculitis.
Special Senses
Visual disturbances, ocular pain/pressure, abnormal lacrimation, tinnitus, decreased hearing,
earache, taste abnormalities.
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Metabolic
Gout.
Respiratory
Asthma, bronchospasm, bronchitis, dyspnea, pharyngitis, rhinitis, sinusitis, URI (upper
respiratory infection).
Genitourinary
Decreased libido/impotence, Peyronie’s disease (very rarely), cystitis, renal colic, polyuria.
General
Fatigue, asthenia, chest pain, malaise, edema, weight gain, angioedema.
In addition, a variety of adverse effects have been reported with other beta-adrenergic blocking
Allergic
Fever, combined with aching and sore throat, laryngospasm, and respiratory distress.
Hematologic
Agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia.
Gastrointestinal
Mesenteric arterial thrombosis and ischemic colitis.
Miscellaneous
The oculomucocutaneous syndrome associated with the beta-blocker practolol has not been
reported with bisoprolol fumarate during investigational use or extensive foreign marketing
experience.
Hydrochlorothiazide
The following adverse experiences, in addition to those listed in the above table, have been
reported with hydrochlorothiazide (generally with doses of 25 mg or greater).
General
Weakness.
Cardiovascular
Orthostatic hypotension (may be potentiated by alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics).
Gastrointestinal
Anorexia, gastric irritation, cramping, constipation, jaundice (intrahepatic cholestatic jaundice),
pancreatitis, cholecystitis, sialadenitis, dry mouth.
Musculoskeletal
Muscle spasm.
Hypersensitive Reactions
Purpura, photosensitivity, rash, urticaria, necrotizing angiitis (vasculitis and cutaneous
vasculitis), fever, respiratory distress including pneumonitis and pulmonary edema, anaphylactic
reactions.
Special Senses
Transient blurred vision, xanthopsia.
Metabolic
Gout.
Genitourinary
Sexual dysfunction, renal failure, renal dysfunction, interstitial nephritis.
Skin
Erythema multiforme including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis including
toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Laboratory Abnormalities
Ziac
Because of the low dose of hydrochlorothiazide in Ziac (bisoprolol fumarate and
hydrochlorothiazide), adverse metabolic effects with bisoprolol fumarate/HCTZ 6.25 mg are less
frequent and of smaller magnitude than with HCTZ 25 mg. Laboratory data on serum potassium
from the U.S. placebo-controlled trials are shown in the following table:
(mEq/L)
d 0.0% 0.0% 0.7% 0.0% 5.5%
Hypokalemia
a) Combined across studies.
b) Patients with normal serum potassium at baseline.
c) Mean change from baseline at Week 4.
d) Percentage of patients with abnormality at Week 4.
Treatment with both beta blockers and thiazide diuretics is associated with increases in uric acid;
however, the magnitude of the change in patients treated with B/H 6.25 mg was smaller than in
patients treated with HCTZ 25 mg. Mean increases in serum triglycerides were observed in
patients treated with bisoprolol fumarate and hydrochlorothiazide 6.25 mg. Total cholesterol
was generally unaffected, but small decreases in HDL cholesterol were noted.
Other laboratory abnormalities that have been reported with the individual components are listed
below.
Bisoprolol Fumarate
In clinical trials, the most frequently reported laboratory change was an increase in serum
triglycerides, but this was not a consistent finding.
Sporadic liver test abnormalities have been reported. In the U.S. controlled trials experience
with bisoprolol fumarate treatment for 4-12 weeks, the incidence of concomitant elevations in
SGOT and SGPT from 1 to 2 times normal was 3.9%, compared to 2.5% for placebo. No patient
had concomitant elevations greater than twice normal.
In the long-term, uncontrolled experience with bisoprolol fumarate treatment for 6-18 months,
the incidence of one or more concomitant elevations in SGOT and SGPT from 1 to 2 times
normal was 6.2%. The incidence of multiple occurrences was 1.9%. For concomitant elevations
in SGOT and SGPT of greater than twice normal, the incidence was 1.5%. The incidence of
multiple occurrences was 0.3%. In many cases these elevations were attributed to underlying
disorders, or resolved during continued treatment with bisoprolol fumarate.
Other laboratory changes included small increases in uric acid, creatinine, BUN, serum
potassium, glucose, and phosphorus and decreases in WBC and platelets. There have been
occasional reports of eosinophilia. These were generally not of clinical importance and rarely
resulted in discontinuation of bisoprolol fumarate.
As with other beta-blockers, ANA conversions have also been reported on bisoprolol fumarate.
About 15% of patients in long-term studies converted to a positive titer, although about one-third
of these patients subsequently reconverted to a negative titer while on continued therapy.
Hydrochlorothiazide
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OVERDOSAGE
There are limited data on overdose with Ziac; however, several cases of overdose with bisoprolol
fumarate have been reported (maximum: 2000 mg). Bradycardia and/or hypotension were noted.
Sympathomimetic agents were given in some cases, and all patients recovered.
The most frequently observed signs expected with overdosage of a beta-blocker are bradycardia
and hypotension. Lethargy is also common, and with severe overdoses, delirium, coma,
convulsions, and respiratory arrest have been reported to occur. Congestive heart failure,
bronchospasm, and hypoglycemia may occur, particularly in patients with underlying conditions.
With thiazide diuretics, acute intoxication is rare. The most prominent feature of overdose is
acute loss of fluid and electrolytes. Signs and symptoms include cardiovascular (tachycardia,
hypotension, shock), neuromuscular (weakness, confusion, dizziness, cramps of the calf muscles,
paresthesia, fatigue, impairment of consciousness), gastrointestinal (nausea, vomiting, thirst),
renal (polyuria, oliguria, or anuria [due to hemoconcentration]), and laboratory findings
(hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypochloremia, alkalosis, increased BUN [especially in patients
with renal insufficiency]).
Bradycardia
Administer IV atropine. If the response is inadequate, isoproterenol or another agent with
positive chronotropic properties may be given cautiously. Under some circumstances,
transvenous pacemaker insertion may be necessary.
Hypotension, Shock
The patient’s legs should be elevated. IV fluids should be administered and lost electrolytes
(potassium, sodium) replaced. Intravenous glucagon may be useful. Vasopressors should be
considered.
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Bronchospasm
Administer a bronchodilator such as isoproterenol and/or aminophylline.
Hypoglycemia
Administer IV glucose.
Surveillance
Fluid and electrolyte balance (especially serum potassium) and renal function should be
monitored until normalized.
The adverse effects (see WARNINGS) of bisoprolol are a mixture of dose-dependent phenomena
(primarily bradycardia, diarrhea, asthenia, and fatigue) and dose-independent phenomena (e.g.,
occasional rash); those of hydrochlorothiazide are a mixture of dose-dependent phenomena
(primarily hypokalemia) and dose-independent phenomena (e.g., possibly pancreatitis); the dose-
dependent phenomena for each being much more common than the dose-independent
phenomena. The latter consist of those few that are truly idiosyncratic in nature or those that
occur with such low frequency that a dose relationship may be difficult to discern. Therapy with
a combination of bisoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide will be associated with both sets of dose-
independent adverse effects, and to minimize these, it may be appropriate to begin combination
therapy only after a patient has failed to achieve the desired effect with monotherapy. On the
other hand, regimens that combine low doses of bisoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide should
produce minimal dose-dependent adverse effects, e.g., bradycardia, diarrhea, asthenia and
fatigue, and minimal dose-dependent adverse metabolic effects, i.e., decreases in serum
potassium (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).
NDA 20186/S-026
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Initial Therapy
Antihypertensive therapy may be initiated with the lowest dose of Ziac, one 2.5/6.25 mg tablet
once daily. Subsequent titration (14 day intervals) may be carried out with Ziac tablets up to the
maximum recommended dose 20/12.5 mg (two 10/6.25 mg tablets) once daily, as appropriate.
Replacement Therapy
The combination may be substituted for the titrated individual components.
Cessation of Therapy
If withdrawal of Ziac therapy is planned, it should be achieved gradually over a period of about 2
Patients with Renal or Hepatic Impairment: As noted in the WARNINGS section, caution must
be used in dosing/titrating patients with hepatic impairment or renal dysfunction. Since there is
no indication that hydrochlorothiazide is dialyzable, and limited data suggest that bisoprolol is
Geriatric Patients: Dosage adjustment on the basis of age is not usually necessary, unless there is
also significant renal or hepatic dysfunction (see above and WARNINGS section).
HOW SUPPLIED
Ziac-2.5 mg/6.25 mg Tablets (bisoprolol fumarate 2.5 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 6.25 mg):
Yellow, round, film-coated, unscored tablets. Debossed with stylized b within an engraved heart
shape on one side and 47 on the other side, supplied as follows:
Zac-5 mg/6.25 mg Tablets (bisoprolol fumarate 5 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 6.25 mg): Pink,
round, film-coated, unscored tablets. Debossed with stylized b within an engraved heart shape
on one side and 50 on the other side, supplied as follows:
Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Dispense in a tight container.