What should you know about blood pressure med metoprolol?

It may also be prescribed for angina or certain heart rhythm problems. The medicine comes in different forms, including immediate-release and extended-release tablets, so follow the label for your particular prescription.

Metoprolol blocks some effects of adrenaline. Your heart then beats more slowly and with less force, while blood vessels may experience less pressure from each heartbeat. This can help manage Hypertension and reduce symptoms related to exertion, such as chest discomfort in Angina.

Feeling tired, dizzy or light-headed can happen, especially after starting treatment or changing the dose. A slower pulse may be expected, but a very slow or irregular heartbeat needs medical advice. Metoprolol can also hide some warning signs of low blood sugar, such as a fast heartbeat.

Take metoprolol exactly as prescribed and at a consistent time. Swallow an extended-release tablet as directed rather than crushing or chewing it. If you miss a dose, use the instructions supplied with your medicine or ask a pharmacist; do not double the next dose.

Do not stop metoprolol suddenly. Your blood pressure or heart symptoms can worsen, particularly if you have Angina. Tell the prescriber if you have asthma or another breathing condition, diabetes, circulation problems, or a history of a slow heartbeat. Check your blood pressure as advised, and keep a record if readings or symptoms are changing.

Seek urgent medical help for new or severe chest pain, fainting, severe shortness of breath, sudden weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or sudden confusion. These symptoms can signal a serious heart or neurological problem, including Stroke or a Transient Ischaemic Attack.

Contact your clinician promptly about persistent dizziness, swelling of the legs, worsening breathlessness, a markedly slow pulse, or symptoms that are interfering with daily activities. Do not change the dose based on one home reading; discuss repeated high or low readings and whether Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring would clarify the pattern.

Ask which metoprolol formulation you take, what to do after a missed dose, and whether your pulse or blood pressure needs a specific threshold for a call. Also ask whether any inhalers, diabetes medicines, heart medicines or over-the-counter products could interact with it.