Product introduction
Betacard-AM combines amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, with atenolol, a beta blocker, in a single tablet. It is prescribed to control high blood pressure and to prevent chest pain caused by angina.
Storage: Store below 30°C, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
Uses of Betacard-AM 5mg/50mg Tablet
- Hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Angina (heart-related chest pain).
Benefits of Betacard-AM 5mg/50mg Tablet
Taking both medicines in one tablet makes the routine simpler and helps keep blood pressure steady through the day. By easing the workload on the heart, it can also lessen episodes of angina.
Side effects of Betacard-AM 5mg/50mg Tablet
Most side effects do not require medical attention and go away as your body adjusts. Consult your doctor if they persist.
- Headache.
- Tiredness.
- Constipation.
- Dizziness.
How to use Betacard-AM 5mg/50mg Tablet
Take one tablet at the dose and time your doctor has advised, swallowing it whole with water. Try to take it at the same time every day and do not stop suddenly, as this can worsen heart symptoms.
How Betacard-AM 5mg/50mg Tablet works
Amlodipine relaxes and widens blood vessels so blood flows more easily and pressure falls. Atenolol acts on the heart, slowing the heart rate and reducing how hard it has to pump. The two actions together lower blood pressure and the heart's oxygen demand.
Substitutes for Betacard-AM 5mg/50mg Tablet
These medicines have the same composition (Amlodipine (5mg) + Atenolol (50mg)) and can generally be used as alternatives. Always confirm with your doctor or our pharmacist before switching.
Safety advice
Alcohol can lower blood pressure further and cause dizziness, so use with caution.
Highly unsafe in pregnancy as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby.
Not advised while breastfeeding as it may pass into milk and affect the infant.
It may cause dizziness or reduce alertness and vision, so avoid driving until you know how it affects you.
Your doctor may need to adjust the dose and monitor you in kidney disease.
A lower starting dose may be needed in liver disease; consult your doctor.
Quick tips
- Take the tablet at the same time every day so your blood pressure stays steady.
- Never stop the tablet abruptly, as sudden withdrawal can worsen chest pain or blood pressure.
- Check your pulse and blood pressure regularly as your doctor advises.
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying down if you feel dizzy.
- Tell your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes or a very slow heartbeat.
Fact box
| Chemical class | Beta blockers combined with calcium antagonists |
|---|---|
| Habit forming | No |
| Therapeutic class | Cardiac |
| Action class | — |
Frequently asked questions
What is Betacard-AM used for?
It is used to treat high blood pressure and angina (heart-related chest pain).
Can I stop Betacard-AM when my pressure is normal?
No. Normal readings usually mean the medicine is working, and stopping suddenly can be harmful. Speak to your doctor first.
What are the salts in Betacard-AM?
Each tablet contains amlodipine 5mg and atenolol 50mg.
Will it make me dizzy?
Dizziness and tiredness can occur, especially early on. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.