METOPROLOL

Background and Date of Approval

Metoprolol received FDA approval on August 28, 2008. It is an antihypertensive agent belonging to the beta-blocker class of medications.

Uses

Metoprolol treats high blood pressure, angina pectoris, and irregular heart rhythm in adults. Additionally, it is used to prevent migraines and heart damage, death, or further heart attacks after a heart attack.

How is it administered?

Take the Metoprolol as your physician advises. This medicine should be taken without the food in an empty stomach. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.

Side Effects

Metoprolol's most common side effects are headache, dizziness, tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, slow heart rate. Serious side effects while taking Metoprolol are swelling of the face, throat, lips, or tongue and difficulty breathing.

Warnings

Do not consume Metoprolol if you are allergic to Metoprolol, other beta-blockers, or any of its ingredients. Refrain from using it if you have heart conduction issues, sick sinus syndrome, untreated heart failure, or are experiencing shock due to heart problems. Individuals with severely blocked blood vessels, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, increased blood acidity, severe asthma, COPD, or those taking certain blood pressure medications should also avoid this drug. Additionally, do not use this medicine if you have untreated high blood pressure is caused by a tumor of the adrenal medulla (phaechromocytoma). Always consult your healthcare provider before use. Due to limited data, it is not recommended for use in children and adolescents.

Precautions

Before consuming this medicine, inform your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes mellitus, ongoing treatment for allergic reactions (as Metoprolol may amplify hypersensitivity), or overactive thyroid. Notify your doctor if you have any history of skin rashes like psoriasis, blood circulation issues (in the fingers, toes, arms, and legs), or heart conduction disorder (AV block). Report to your doctor if you have or have had Prinzmetal’s angina, or heart failure accompanied by certain factors like a recent heart attack or angina, reduced kidney or liver function, heart valve diseases, enlarged heart muscle, recent heart surgery, or unstable heart failure. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication. Inform your doctor if your age is under 40 or over 80.

Word of Advice

If you have taken more than the prescribed dose of Metoprolol, seek immediate medical attention. Overdose may result in severe reduction in blood pressure, decreased heart rate, cardiac complications, breathing difficulties, muscle constriction, vomiting, and altered consciousness. Before beginning treatment, inform your doctor of all underlying medical conditions. Do not discontinue the medicine without your doctor's advice. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a missed dose. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Contact your doctor for additional information.

References

Milpharm Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Nov 2020] [Accessed on 17th August 2023], pil.5200.pdf (medicines.org.uk) Drugs.com, [Revised on July 2023] [Accessed on 17th August 2023], Metoprolol: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects - Drugs.com Ohm Laboratories Inc., US Food and Drug Administration,[Revised in Jan 2018] [Accessed on 17th August 2023] LABEL (fda.gov)

Frequently Asked Questions

How to manage the side effects of Metoprolol?

To manage the side effects of Metoprolol, follow the prescribed dosage, and report side effects promptly. Stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a balanced diet and attending follow-up appointments.

How to store Metoprolol?

Ensure that Metoprololn is stored out of sight and reach of both pets and children. It should be stored below 25°C and should not be frozen.

Can children use Metoprolol?

Due to limited data, metoprolol is not recommended for use in children and adolescents. The suitability of any medication depends on factors such as age, weight, and specific medical conditions. Consult your doctor for more information.

What are the side effects of Metoprolol?

Common side effects of Metoprolol include headache, dizziness, tiredness, stomach pain, nausea, slow heart rate. It is crucial to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.

Can Metoprolol be taken during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

It is unsafe to consume Metoprolol during breastfeeding. So, before starting the treatment, inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Contact your doctor for more information. The potential benefits and risks of the medicine should be carefully assessed.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Metoprolol?

If you miss a tablet dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose of the Metoprolol.

Available Brands 13

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS