{"id":1147,"date":"2023-07-21T08:24:50","date_gmt":"2023-07-21T08:24:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/?p=1147"},"modified":"2023-09-08T14:32:18","modified_gmt":"2023-09-08T14:32:18","slug":"metoprolol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/blood-pressure-medications\/metoprolol\/","title":{"rendered":"About Metoprolol: A Patient&#8217;s Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Highlights<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Metoprolol (also known as Lopressor or Toprol-XL) helps to lower blood pressure, reduce chest pain, and improve circulation, all of which may prevent heart attacks.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Metoprolol is generally safe for certain individuals, but others should avoid this medication.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have high blood pressure, angina, or heart trouble, your doctor may prescribe metoprolol. As with any medication, metoprolol should be taken according to your doctor\u2019s directions. Here\u2019s what patients should know about metoprolol, including answers to many common patient questions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Is Metoprolol and What Is It Used For?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol is a prescription <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/blood-pressure-medications\/drug-reference-guide-blood-pressure-medications\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">blood pressure medication<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that improves blood circulation and heart function. Doctors prescribe metoprolol for patients who experience:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chest pain (angina)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High blood pressure (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/hypertension\/what-is-hypertension-symptoms-causes-diagnosis-treatment\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">hypertension<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart failure<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irregular heartbeat due to atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol may also help prevent heart disease and second heart attacks. It is available as a generic or under the brand names Lopressor, Toprol-Xl, and the less-common Kapspargo Sprinkle.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>How Does Metoprolol Work?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol belongs to a class of drugs called <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/high-blood-pressure\/in-depth\/beta-blockers\/art-20044522\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">beta blockers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which cause the heart to beat slower and with less force. Beta-blockers may also improve blood flow.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1149\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/2.jpeg-4.jpg\" alt=\"Metoprolol molecule\" width=\"780\" height=\"562\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beta-blockers work by blocking the effects of the hormone epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, which reduces the heart&#8217;s workload and helps it to beat more regularly. This can lower blood pressure.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Formulas Are Available for Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol is available in several forms, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=METOPROLOL%20TARTRATE\"><b>Metoprolol tartrate<\/b><\/a><b> (immediate release)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Available in tablet form, this formula is usually taken multiple times per day and is available in multiple dosage strengths (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-tartrate-25-mg-tab\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">25 milligrams<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-tartrate-37.5-mg-tb\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">37.5 milligrams<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-tartrate-50-mg-tab\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">50 milligrams<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-tartrate-75-mg-tab\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">75 milligrams<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-100-mg-tablet\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100 milligrams<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/ailment_details\/?ailment=High%20Blood%20Pressure&amp;drugName=METOPROLOL%20SUCCINATE\"><b>Metoprolol succinate<\/b><\/a><b> (extended release)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Available in tablet form, this formula is designed to release the medication slowly over an extended period and is typically taken once daily. The extended-release form is also available in multiple dose strengths (<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-succ-er-25-mg-tab\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">25 milligram<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-succ-er-50-mg-tab\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">50 milligram<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-succ-er-100-mg-tab\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">100 milligram<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/metoprolol-succ-er-200-mg-tab\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">200 milligram<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Metoprolol tartrate injection<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This formula is used in hospital settings for the treatment of certain cardiac conditions, such as a heart attack or unstable angina.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Metoprolol Dosage and Administration<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dosages may depend on whether metoprolol is being used for initial treatment or maintenance of a medical condition. It also depends on the specific formula (immediate release or extended release).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Immediate-release formulas are usually taken more than once per day. Your doctor may prescribe a low dose in the beginning, then gradually increase your dosage based on how you respond to the medication. Follow your doctor\u2019s instructions carefully.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>How Should I Take Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol can be taken with or without food. It\u2019s advised to swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water; however, some formulas allow you to break the tablet in half to make it easier to swallow. Check your medication insert to see if your formula allows you to do this. Do not crush or chew the tablets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some doctors may recommend you take metoprolol at night, as it may cause dizziness. However, this can vary by individual, so check with your doctor to determine an ideal dosing schedule.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Are the Potential Side Effects of Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common side effects of metoprolol can include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dizziness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drowsiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diarrhea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Constipation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heartburn<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stomach pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gas<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bloating<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Itchiness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rash<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Runny nose<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry mouth\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Less-common side effects of metoprolol may include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swelling of the hands and feet<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fainting<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weight gain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rapid or irregular heart rate<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Notify your doctor of any new, unusual, or concerning side effects.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Should I Avoid When Taking Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1150\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/3.jpeg-5-min.jpg\" alt=\"Metoprolol bottle\" width=\"780\" height=\"521\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain medications and substances may interact with metoprolol or impact its effectiveness. Some things you should avoid or use with caution when taking metoprolol include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alcohol<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other blood pressure-lowering medications<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other beta blockers<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beta-2 antagonists<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Driving, until you know how this medication will affect you<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tell your doctor if any of the following apply to you:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019re currently taking any medications or supplements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019re pregnant or planning to conceive<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You have a slow or irregular heartbeat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You have heart or liver disease<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019re planning to have surgery (including dental surgery)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019re taking any other beta-blockers<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you miss a dose of metoprolol, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. It&#8217;s generally important not to double the dose to make up for the missed one, but the exact instructions for missed doses may vary depending on your specific prescription. Consult with your doctor for specific instructions.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Should I Do If I Overdose on Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you suspect you have overdosed on metoprolol, it&#8217;s crucial that you seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Who Should Not Take Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your doctor may not recommend metoprolol if you have certain medical conditions, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slow heart rate\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sick sinus syndrome<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Severe heart block<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cardiogenic shock<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Asthma\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diabetes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hyperthyroidism<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Liver or kidney disease\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy or breastfeeding<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These conditions may require special monitoring or dosage adjustments when taking metoprolol.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do not take metoprolol if you are allergic to it or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.pennmedicine.org\/for-patients-and-visitors\/patient-information\/conditions-treated-a-to-z\/drug-allergy\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">have shown hypersensitivity<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to any of its components.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Are There any Potential Drug Interactions With Metoprolol?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol has been shown to interact with several drugs, including but not limited to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Other medications that affect heart rate and blood pressure, including other beta blockers. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Combining these medications can increase the risk of side effects, such as bradycardia and low blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Calcium channel blockers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol can increase the risk of low blood pressure when taken with <\/span><b>calcium channel blockers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Clonidine<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Metoprolol can increase the effects of <\/span><b>c<\/b><b>lonidine<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Digoxin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Metoprolol can increase the levels of <\/span><b>digoxin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the blood, which can lead to toxicity.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>MAO inhibitors<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Metoprolol should not be taken with MAO inhibitors, as this can lead to a dangerous increase or decrease in blood pressure.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>St. John\u2019s Wort<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">St. John&#8217;s wort can increase metoprolol in the blood, which can lead to side effects.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Antidepressants<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some antidepressants, such as <\/span><b>paroxetine<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and<\/span><b> fluoxetine<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, can also increase the levels of metoprolol in the blood.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No interaction list is complete. If you notice any new or unusual symptoms after starting metoprolol, report them to your doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Get the Lowest Price for Metoprolol With BidRx<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">BidRx makes it easy to find the best prices on metoprolol and other prescription medications. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/Contents\/customers\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create your bid today<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Please note that this information is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you are taking metoprolol, there are several things you should know. Read this patient\u2019s guide about metoprolol and learn what to expect.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1293,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1147","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blood-pressure-medications"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1147","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1147"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1147\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1151,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1147\/revisions\/1151"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1293"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1147"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1147"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1147"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}