Bisoprolol and breathlessness

Since having valve surgery ten years ago I have been in Permanent AF notwithstanding a failed attempt at ablation. I was originally on 2.5 mg of Bisoprolol, but my cardiologist decided a year ago to up this to 7.5mg. I have found that I am increasingly breathless whenever I try to do anything, and particularly if I bend down. Accordingly off my own bat I've reduced the dosage to 5mg, and my breathlessness is less pronounced. However my heart rate at rest is on average between 75 and 85 bpm. Is this excessive such that I need to go back onto 7.5mg with its associated breathlessness. Any advice would be appreciated as I do not have a great deal of faith in my GP who I am seeing in two weeks time.

[BobD Volunteer]

Normal heart rate is considered between 60 and 100 so if you feel fine then what you do is up to you. We must not advise on drug dosage.

[Finvola]

I suffered breathlessness and fatigue on only 1.25mg of Bisoprolol but have had real relief since my GP changed me to 2.5mg Nebivolol 18 months ago. Do your research and talk it over with your GP who knows your medical history as there may be alternative treatments for you.

[Mrsvemb]

I was on 2.5mg of Bisoprolol twice a day and suffered breathlessness amongst other things. I changed to Nebivolol 2.5mg twice a day just over two weeks ago. Within the first week the breathlessness stopped and I was able to walk faster up a hill and talk at the same time. It was my cardiologist who agreed to the change. He did say that my AF might not be as well controlled but so far so good. Speak to your GP or cardiologist about changing your medication. Worth a try.

[Wightbaby]

Been on Bisoprolol 1.25mg for about 6 months. Am in permanent.

Don't get breathless.

Heart rate usually between 67-75.....sometimes up to 80, but cardiologist OK with that.