This page contains brief details about the drug , it's indication, dosage & administaration, mechanism of action, related brands with strength, warnings and common side effects.

Background and Date of Approval

The U.S. FDA approved Metoprolol on August 28, 2008. Metoprolol is an antihypertensive agent. belongs to a class of medications known as beta-blockers. 

Mechanism of Action of undefined

Metoprolol works by blocking the effects of stress hormones like adrenaline on the heart, leading to a slower heart rate and reduced force of contractions. This helps lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart. It also helps to prevent irregular heart rhythms by affecting the electrical signals in the heart.

Uses of undefined

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.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

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.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

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. 

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. 

Word Of Advice

If you've taken more than the prescribed dose of Metoprolol, seek immediate medical attention. Overdose may lead to severe blood pressure reduction, decreased heart rate, heart issues, breathing problems, muscle constriction, vomiting, and altered consciousness. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor about all the underlying medical conditions. Do not stop the medicine until your doctor advises. Do not double-dose the medicine to make up for a forgotten dose. Notify your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. Contact your doctor for more information. 

Frequently Asked Question

References

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

Disclaimer

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.