Are Purcon and Concor Interchangeable for Hypertension Treatment?

Q: Are Purcon and Concor Interchangeable for Hypertension Treatment?

Hello Mr. Leiming： 1. PURCON 5MG contains BISOPROLOL 5mg. It is indicated for hypertension and angina to improve cardiac function. It is manufactured by Rian Pharmaceutical, with a National Health Insurance code of AC48439100 and a unit price of NT$3.86. 2.

Medication issues

Hello! I have mild hypertension and have been on medication for several years.
My doctor has changed my medication twice.
Currently, I am taking PURCON 5MG, half a tablet daily.
Due to my residence, I have been picking up my chronic disease prescriptions at a nearby pharmacy for the second and third times.
This time, the pharmacy informed me that PURCON is out of stock and has replaced it with the foreign brand CONCOR 5.
My question is: Are PURCON and CONCOR completely the same? Can they be used interchangeably? Thank you! Lei Ming

Leiming, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/05/09

Dr. Hou Fangmin reply Pharmacology

Hello Mr.
Leiming:
1.
PURCON 5MG contains BISOPROLOL 5mg.
It is indicated for hypertension and angina to improve cardiac function.
It is manufactured by Rian Pharmaceutical, with a National Health Insurance code of AC48439100 and a unit price of NT$3.86.
2.
CONCOR 5MG contains BISOPROLOL.
It is also indicated for hypertension and angina to improve cardiac function.
It is manufactured by Merck Taiwan (original manufacturer), with a unit price of NT$3.86 and a National Health Insurance code of B017125100.
The above two medications are from different companies but have the same active ingredient and indications.
The CONCOR you have is from the original manufacturer.
I believe the pharmacy will report to the National Health Insurance Bureau using the original manufacturer's medication.
If it is in a hospital setting, even though the active ingredient is the same, if the brand name differs, a physician's consent and signature are required for any changes.
Is my explanation clear? If not, please feel free to correct me.
Wishing you peace and joy.
I have attached the CONCOR package insert for your reference.

Reply Date: 2014/05/09

More Info

When it comes to managing hypertension, the choice of medication is crucial, and understanding the interchangeability of different drugs is essential for effective treatment. In your case, you are inquiring about the interchangeability of Purcon (PURCON) and Concor (CONCOR), both of which are medications used to treat high blood pressure.

Purcon is a brand name for a medication that contains bisoprolol, a selective beta-1 adrenergic blocker. It works by reducing heart rate and the force of contraction of the heart, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. Concor, on the other hand, is also a brand name for bisoprolol, and it contains the same active ingredient. Therefore, both Purcon and Concor are essentially the same medication in terms of their active component.

Given that both medications contain bisoprolol, they can be considered interchangeable. However, there are a few important points to consider:
1. Dosage and Formulation: While both medications contain the same active ingredient, the formulations may differ slightly in terms of inactive ingredients, which can affect absorption and tolerability in some patients. It is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist when switching between brands to ensure that the new formulation is suitable for you.

2. Consistency in Treatment: When managing chronic conditions like hypertension, consistency in medication is key. If you have been stable on Purcon, switching to Concor should not pose any issues, but it is important to monitor your blood pressure and any potential side effects after the switch.
3. Pharmacy Availability: As you mentioned, the change was prompted by the unavailability of Purcon at your local pharmacy. This is a common issue with certain medications, and it highlights the importance of having alternatives. Always inform your healthcare provider about any changes in your medication regimen, especially if you notice any changes in your blood pressure or experience side effects.

4. Monitoring: After switching medications, it is crucial to monitor your blood pressure regularly. This will help you and your healthcare provider determine if the new medication is effectively controlling your hypertension. If you notice any significant changes in your blood pressure readings or experience any adverse effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

5. Consultation with Healthcare Providers: Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider regarding any changes in your medication. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

In summary, Purcon and Concor are interchangeable as they both contain bisoprolol. However, it is essential to monitor your response to the medication after the switch and maintain communication with your healthcare provider to ensure optimal management of your hypertension. If you have any concerns or experience any side effects, do not hesitate to reach out for professional guidance.

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