Metoprolol is a nadolol and its operation relies on the relaxation of blood vessels and reduction in heart rate. The end results are improved blood flow and a reduction in pressure.
What is Metoprolol?
Metoprolol is used in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It can also be prescribed to prevent angina. In both cases this is not a cure, but a treatment that helps to control the problem. Metoprolol is also used in improving the survival rate after a heart attack, in the treatment of irregular heartbeat, movement problems associated with taking psychiatric drugs and to prevent migraines.
How should Metoprolol be taken?
Metoprolol is taken orally in the form of tablets or extended-release tablets, with a dosage of 1 or 2 tablets daily with meals or shortly after. Your doctor may prescribe a low initial dose that may gradually increase. The extended-release tablets can be split in half, but should never be chewed or grounded.
Side effects associated with Metoprolol
Among the possible adverse effects of metoprolol are included the following:
- unjustified weight gain
- heavy, irregular or rapid heartbeat
- heartburn
- constipation
- depression
- shortness of breath
- gas or bloating
- swelling of hands, feet, ankles or calves
- stomach pain
- cold hands and feet
- runny nose
- nausea
- rash or itching
- wheezing
- dry mouth
- fatigue
- fainting
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- vomiting
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Metoprolol
Before taking metoprolol it is important to tell your doctor if:
- You are allergic to the active substance or acebutolol, atenolol, betaxolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, esmolol, labetalol nadolol, pindolol, propranolol, sotalol, timolol, in any other medicines or excipients of metoprolol
- You are taking other medicines, herbal remedies and supplements, especially bupropion, cimetidine, clonidine, diphenhydramine, fluoxetine, hydroxychloroquine, paroxetine, propafenone, quinidine, ranitidine, reserpine, ritonavir, terbinafine and thioridazine
- You are suffering from bradycardia, cardiac failure, poor circulation or pheochromocytoma
- You suffer (or have suffered) from asthma or other lung problems, heart disease or kidney disease, diabetes, severe allergies or hyperthyroidism
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
You must notify surgeons and dentists that you are being treated with metopololo and remember that alcohol can increase drowsiness induced by medication, which can impair the ability to drive and operate dangerous machinery.
