General
Description & Use
Metoprolol
is a selective ß1 receptor blocker used in treatment of
several diseases of the cardiovascular system, especially hypertension.
Treats high blood pressure and angina (chest pain) and reduces
the risk of repeated heart attacks. It is marketed under the brand
name Lopressor or Lopresor,
respectively, by Novartis, and Toprol-XL (in
the USA); Selokeen (in the Netherlands); as Minax by Alphapharm
(in Australia), Metrol by Arrow Pharmaceuticals (in Australia),
as Betaloc by AstraZeneca, as Neobloc by Unipharm
(in Israel), as Corvitol by Berlin-Chemie AG, and as Metolar
and Metolar Xr by Cipla. A number of generic
products are available as well. The active substance metoprolol
is employed either as metoprolol succinate or metoprolol tartrate
(whereas 100 mg metoprolol tartrate corresponds to 95 mg metoprolol
succinate), respectively as prolonged-release or conventional-release
formulation.
Why
is Lopressor prescribed?
Lopressor,
a type of medication known as a beta blocker, is used in the treatment
of high blood pressure, angina pectoris (chest pain, usually caused
by lack of oxygen to the heart due to clogged arteries), and heart
attack. When prescribed for high blood pressure, it is effective
when used alone or in combination with other high blood pressure
medications. Beta blockers decrease the force and rate of heart
contractions, thereby reducing the demand for oxygen and lowering
blood pressure. Occasionally doctors prescribe Lopressor for the
treatment of aggressive behavior, prevention of migraine headache,
and relief of temporary anxiety. An extended-release form of metoprolol,
called Toprol-XL, is prescribed for high blood pressure, angina,
and heart failure.
Most
important fact about Lopressor
If you have high blood pressure, you must take Lopressor regularly
for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually,
it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Lopressor;
and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well.
Lopressor does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it
under control.
How
should you take Lopressor?
Lopressor should be taken with food or immediately after you have
eaten.
Take Lopressor exactly as prescribed, even if your symptoms have
disappeared.
Try not to miss any doses. If Lopressor is not taken regularly,
your condition may worsen.
If you miss a dose... If it is within 4 hours of your next dose,
skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Never take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage
instructions
Store Lopressor at room temperature in a tightly closed container,
away from light. Protect from moisture. Store Toprol-XL at room
temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Lopressor.
Transient effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness,
tiredness, diarrhea, unusual dreams, ataxia, trouble sleeping,
and vision problems. It may also reduce blood flow to the hands
and feet, causing them to feel numb and cold; smoking may worsen
this effect. Serious side effects that are not to be tolerated
for any length of time include symptoms of a very slow heartbeat
(less than 50 bpm) (e.g. persistent dizziness, fainting, unusual
fatigue), bluish discoloration of the fingers and toes, numbness/tingling/swelling
of the hands or feet, sexual dysfunction, erectile dysfunction
(impotence), hair loss, mental/mood changes, trouble breathing,
cough, and increased thirst. Other highly unlikely symptoms include
easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat or fever, yellowing
skin or eyes, stomach pain, dark urine, and persistent nausea.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling,
severe dizziness. Taking it with alcohol might cause mild body
rashes and therefore is not recommended.
More common side effects may include:
Depression, diarrhea, dizziness, itching, rash, shortness of breath,
slow heartbeat, tiredness
