How to Take Metoprolol

Metoprolol is the generic name for prescription drugs such as Lopressor and Toprol-XL. It is a beta-blocker which blocks certain chemical reactions in your body such as ephedrine on the heart and blood vessels. This in turn is used to treat high blood pressure and Angina. In some cases, Metoprolol is used after an acute heart attack to help improve the chance of survival. Follow these steps to take Metoprolol to reduce blood pressure, heart rate and strain on the heart.

Things You'll Need

• Metoprolol prescription

Instructions

1. Take Metoprolol as prescribed by your doctor. It is important that you do not take any more Metoprolol than prescribed. Read any information that comes with your prescription of Metoprolol and if you have any questions ask the pharmacist or your doctor.

2. Swallow the Metoprolol pill whole with a full glass of water. It is important to stay on a regimen when you are taking Metoprolol and taking the pill at a set time every day will help you remember.

3. Cut the pill in half if you are told to do so by your doctor, but do not crush or chew the tablet. Metoprolol is a time-release tablet and crushing or chewing it could cause too much of the medication to be released at once.

4. Combine Metoprolol with a regimen of diet and exercise to achieve the best results. Follow your diet, exercise and medication regimen closely if you have hypertension.

5. Continue to take Metoprolol, even if you feel well, while you're being treated for hypertension. There are usually no outward sign for high blood pressure and stopping Metoprolol could cause your condition to worsen.

Tips & Warnings

• Inform your doctor that you are taking Metoprolol if you need to have any type of surgery. You may need to stop taking Metoprolol for a short time.

• Tell your doctor before taking Metoprolol if you have congestive heart failure, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, low blood pressure, depression, liver disease, kidney disease, thyroid disorder or myasthenia gravis. You may not be able to take Metoprolol or your dosage may need to be altered.

• Use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery while taking Metoprolol as the medication may impair your reactions and thinking.

• Less serious side effects from taking Metoprolol include vomiting, insomnia, trouble reaching orgasm, impotence, low sex drive, fatigue, anxiety and nervousness. These side effects are not serious and you should continue taking Metoprolol as prescribed. If the problems persist or worsen, contact your doctor.

• Do not take Metoprolol if you have a heart block, sick sinus syndrome, a slow heart rate, pheochromocytoma or circulation problems.

• Do not take Metoprolol if you are pregnant, could become pregnant or are nursing. Metoprolol is known to cause birth defects in newborns.

• Serious side effects from taking Metoprolol include slow heartbeat, uneven heartbeat, light-headedness, fainting, shortness of breath, swelling in ankles and feet, nausea, stomach pain, low fever, poor appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stool, jaundice, depression and cold hands and feet. Stop tasking Metoprolol and seek medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms.

• Metoprolol can cause an adverse reaction when mixed with other drugs. Inform your doctor of any and all medications you are taking.