Expert: David Richardson - 6/29/2009

Question
I am a healthy 76, 200 lbs, 5'11", four way bypass in 96 after 3 angioplastys. I was recently experiencing higher than normal blood pressure with uncomfortable overall pressure. My doctor put me on water pills which helped the uncomfortable over all, and increased my Cozarr to two pills a day (50 mg ea.)The last week I have been exhausted when trying to do my regular farm labor, a little unsteady on my feet when this occurs. For several weeks I have awaken in the morning and felt short of breath. As that occurred this AM I took my blood pressure and for 3 hours it was fine  120/78 approx. but pulse rate varied 35, 42, 38. It normally is 63-67, (as it was latter in the day as I did light work.). I was resting during this period. As I was doing this light work I felt short of breath. This used to occur years ago when I first started Cozaar but after a few minutes of walking or exertion my heart seemed to catch up then and all seemed well. Not so this time. Is it possibly due to the increase in the beta blocker or other possible causes?

Answer
Dear Mr. Conway,

Cozaar is not a beta blocker, but an ACE Inhibitor.  It does not slow the pulse.  35 is pretty slow.  Please report the slow pulse and shortness of breath to your doctor promptly

Please write back if this note doesn't answer all your questions.

David Richardson