Emcor (bisoprolol) is a medication prescribed to counteract high blood pressure. It is banned in "control sports," where it might enhance an archer's or marksman's ability to aim precisely. As a beta blocker, it lessens the action of adrenaline and noradrenaline on the heart, slowing the rapid heartbeat that results from stress. Slowed heartbeat decreases blood pressure and increases the oxygen level in the heart. The medication has a variety of possible side effects.
Slowed Heartbeat, Fatigue, Dizziness
Drugs.com cites an abnormally slow heartbeat as one possible side effect of Emcor. An abnormally slow heartbeat is one with less than 60 beats per minute. As many as 25 percent of those who take Emcor suffer from fatigue and up to 10 percent who take the medication feel dizzy. Those who take Emcor should not drive or operate machinery while on the medicine; they also should avoid alcohol, which can increase possibility of dizziness or fainting. If you rise quickly from sitting or lying down, the possibility of dizziness and fainting increases.
Skin Rash
Drugs.com lists skin irritation, rash, sweating, flushed skin, acne and eczema among the possible skin problems that may be attributed to Emcor. Dryness and irritation of exterior body surfaces may also worsen a person's psoriasis. Skin surfaces can become cool and pallid, and a person may have problems with dry eyes.
Allergies
Possible allergic reactions to Emcor include shortness of breath and facial swelling. The Mayo Clinic says a patient taking Emcor may also become nauseous or feel a pounding or erratic heartbeat. Because the medication can cause dizziness and fainting, a person experiencing allergic reactions may need help finding medical assistance.
Psychiatric Side Effects
Taking Emcor may cause insomnia, hallucinations or depression, the Mayo Clinic says. A person may also feel restless or anxious. As many as 10 percent of those taking Emcor report other psychiatric side effects, including trouble concentrating, vertigo and memory problems. It is less likely that patients will have odd or upsetting dreams while on the medication.
Muscle Weakness
Those who take Emcor may feel extremely weak, cold or numb, according to the Netdoctor website. A person taking the medication may also feel cramping, stiffness and tingling or numbness in his hands and feet. These side effects are rare, and Drugs.com notes that they tend to cease within three days of discontinuing the beta blocker.
Other Side Effects
Other side effects from taking Emcor include weight gain, diarrhea and changes in intensity of feeling and touch, the Mayo Clinic says. Fever or chills, congestion, sneezing, headaches and losing one's voice are among other reported side effects. Up to about 6 percent of patients may also find they have elevated liver function tests, some with almost twice the normal results. Drugs.com reports that the latter group (twice the normal results) makes up about 2 percent of patients taking the medicine.
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