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Metoprolol
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About metoprolol
| Type of medicine | Beta-adrenoceptor blocking drug (beta-blocker) |
| Used for | High blood pressure Angina (chest pain) Irregular heartbeat Protection of the heart following a heart attack Thyroid problems Prevention of migraines |
| Also called | Betaloc-SA® Lopresor® Lopresor SR® |
| Available as | Tablets Durules or modified release tablets (metoprolol is released slowly to give an even effect) |
Irregular Heartbeat: Normally the heartbeat is regulated by special tissues which conduct electricity. Some cases of irregular heartbeat are caused by these tissues conducting electricity too quickly. Metoprolol works by reducing over-activity in the conducting tissue.
Protecting the Heart: Taking beta-blockers after having a heart attack has been shown, in some patients, to reduce the risk of a second attack.
Thyroid Problems: An overactive thyroid gland causes symptoms such as a fast or pounding heartbeat, trembling and sweating. Blocking beta receptors relieves these symptoms quickly, as anti-thyroid treatment usually takes several weeks to take effect.
Migraine: The pain of a migraine attack is usually due to widening of the blood vessels on the surface of the brain. Metoprolol prevents this widening and thus prevents attacks.
Before taking metoprolol
Before taking metoprolol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
- If you suffer from low blood pressure or poor circulation.
- If you suffer from asthma or breathing difficulties.
- If you suffer from myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease).
- If you suffer from diabetes or hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
- If you suffer from phaeochromocytoma (a growth of the adrenal gland).
- If you have heart failure (a condition where the pumping action of the heart is reduced) or heart block (a slow and irregular heart beat).
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
- If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
How to take metoprolol
- Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
- Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible before beginning treatment.
- Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
- Try to take your medicine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses. If you do forget, take the dose when you remember unless the next dose is due. Never take two doses together.
- Swallow the modified release form of metoprolol whole (not crushed or chewed).
- Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of metoprolol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible take the container with you, even if it is empty.
- This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside metoprolol.
- Keep your regular doctors appointments so your progress can be monitored.
- Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking metoprolol.
- It is very important to follow any dietary advice that you may have been given by your doctor.
- If you have diabetes check your blood glucose levels regularly as this preparation can affect the levels of sugar in your blood.
Can metoprolol cause problems
Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.
| Possible side-effects | What can I do if I experience this |
| Tiredness, coldness of the extremities (fingers, toes and nose), disturbed sleep, or nightmares | Speak with your doctor if you suffer from these side effects |
| Shortness of breath | Speak with your doctor as soon as possible if you suffer from this side effect |
| Headache | Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain killer. If the headache continues speak with your doctor |
| Feeling sick or being sick | Eat little and often. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast and drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids |
| Dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness or fainting (especially when getting up from a sitting or lying down position) | Getting up slowly may help. If you begin to feel dizzy, lie down so that you do not faint, then sit for a few moments before standing to prevent the dizziness returning |
Other side effects may include: a slowed heart beat, 'pins and needles', visual disturbances, breathing difficulties, changes in sexual functions, skin rash and loss of hair.
How to store metoprolol
- Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
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References
- British National Formulary; 54th Edition (September 2007) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Lopresor® Tablets 100mg, 50mg, Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised 27 April 2007, accessed 12 November 2007.
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Lopresor SR®, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised 27 April 2007, accessed 12 November 2007.
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Betaloc-SA®, AstraZeneca UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised 21 March 2007, accessed 12 November 2007.
- Summary of Product Characteristics, Betaloc® I.V. Injection, AstraZeneca UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Text revised 21 March 2007, accessed 12 November 2007.
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