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Question:
What can I do about my medications that cause itching?
Please tell me if Concor (bisoprolol) might have a stronger side effect of skin itching than BetalocZok (metropolol), because that is what happened to me since my doctor replaced it and I cannot sleep at night because of my itchy skin. It is true that at the same time I happened to discover that I also have type 2 diabetes and I am on medication for it with Diaprel (sulfonylureea). And if this fact is true, can I switch back from Concor to Betalok in short time or it must be done gradually? Thank you.
submitted by Maria from Greece on 3/1/10
Answer:
by Texas Heart Institute cardiologist, Jorge Guttin, MD
Both medications have been reported as having itching as a side effect (although in low percentage). People react differently to number or severity of medications, so anything is possible. You should consult with your doctor as to the dose and how gradual the change may be, depending upon frequency of administration and your diagnosis. There are also interactions between diabetes and beta blockers.
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Updated March 2010
