UsesUsed to treat high blood pressure, fast and irregular heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmias especially supraventricular arrhythmia) Chest pain (angina pectoris), overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), heart failure, early intervention in heart attack (myocardial infarction) and to prevent migraine attacks
Mechanism of ActionIt works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing heart rate to improve blood flow and decrease blood pressure. Early intervention and start of metoprolol in myocardial infarction reduces infarct size and the incidence of ventricular fibrillation
DosageThe recommended dose range is 10 to 300 mg/day in divided doses
Side EffectsCentral Nervous System- Tiredness, dizziness, depression, confusion, short-term memory loss, headache, drowsiness, abnormal dreams and sleeplessness Heart- Shortness of breath, slow heart rate, palpitations, heart failure, swelling in the extremities, fainting, chest pain, and low blood pressure Respiratory- Wheezing and difficulty in breathing Gastrointestinal- Diarrhea, nausea, dry mouth, gastric pain, constipation, flatulence, digestive tract disorders, and heartburn Hypersensitive Reactions- Itching or rash
Warnings/PrecautionsCaution should be exercised in patients with history of heart attack, slow or irregular heartbeat, heart failure, chest pain, poor blood circulation, liver impairment, sugar, breathing problems, adrenal gland tumor (pheochromocytoma), any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding It may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication Avoid alcohol consumption Avoid abrupt withdrawal