Metoprolol Description

Generic Name : METOPROLOL

Pronunciation : (me toe' proe lole)

Trade Name(s) : Betaloc, Lopresor, Metocard, Metolar,

Why it is prescribed: Metoprolol is used to control high blood pressure and to prevent recurrence of heart pain i.e., angina and heart attacks.

When it is to be taken: Metoprolol usually is taken one to three times a day. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. This medication controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Therefore, it is important that you take metoprolol regularly. Try to take it at the same time each day.

How it should be taken: Metoprolol comes in tablet form. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose. Take it with or immediately after meals.

Special Instruction :
1. Your doctor may ask you to check your pulse rate daily while taking this medication and will tell you how rapid it should be. Ask your doctor to teach you how to take your pulse. If your pulse is slower than it should be, contact your doctor about taking the drug that day.
2. Keep all appointments with your doctor so that your response to this medication can be checked.
3. Do not stop taking metoprolol without consulting your doctor. Stopping the medication abruptly might make your condition worse.
4. Your doctor may prescribe a low-salt or low-sodium diet, tell you to stop smoking, and restrict your intake of alcohol. To obtain greatest benefit from this drug, you must follow these instructions.
5. Omit the missed dose and take only the next dose at its scheduled time. Do not take a double dose.

Side Effects :
1. Dizziness, tiredness, cold hands and feet, headache, nightmares, difficulty sleeping, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea or constipation, gas. Contact your doctor if these symptoms are severe or persist.
2. Avoid taking your last dose of the day at bedtime if you have sleeping problems.
3. Shortness of breath, wheezing, difficulty breathing, skin rash, slow or irregular pulse, swelling of feet and lower legs, sudden weight gain, chest pain. Contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions :
1. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should inform their doctors.
2. Tell your doctor if you have a history of asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or other lung disease; diabetes; heart disease; circulation problems; thyroid problems; or liver disease.
3. Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, especially heart medication and medication for high blood pressure, allergies, or colds.
4. Before having surgery, tell the doctor or dentist in charge that you are taking metoprolol.
5. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions :
1. Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.
2. Store it at room temperature and away from light.