Metoprolol (as tartrate or succinate, depending on formulation)
Brand names (as verified)
Lopressor; Betaloc; Toprol-XL (salt and release forms vary)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Multiple strengths are available; immediate-release and extended-release products are not automatically interchangeable.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A selective beta-1 blocker used for hypertension, angina, heart failure, certain arrhythmias, and prevention of complications after a heart attack. Also used to prevent migraine in some cases.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with cardiogenic shock, uncompensated heart failure, severe bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, or second/third-degree AV block without a pacemaker. Avoid with certain calcium-channel blockers.
Important precautions
Do not stop suddenly ‚ taper the dose under medical supervision to avoid rebound hypertension or angina. Use with caution in asthma and COPD. Monitor blood sugar in diabetic patients, as metoprolol can mask hypoglycaemia signs.
Common side effects
Common effects include fatigue, dizziness, cold hands and feet, slow heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent care for very slow heartbeat, severe breathlessness, significant drop in blood pressure, or worsening of heart failure symptoms.
Important interactions
Interactions include verapamil, diltiazem, other antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, MAOIs, clonidine, and insulin or antidiabetics. Tell your doctor about all medicines.
Allergy considerations
Report any allergy to metoprolol or other beta-blockers. Check excipients in the specific formulation.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Use only when clearly needed and after specialist assessment. Some beta-blockers have been associated with foetal growth restriction and low birth weight ‚ monitor closely.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Metoprolol passes into breast milk in small amounts. Short-term or low-dose use is generally considered acceptable ‚ confirm with your doctor.
Children and older adults
Not routinely licensed for children in most indications. In older adults, start at a low dose and increase slowly while monitoring blood pressure and heart rate.
Storage
Store below 25°C in the original pack, away from moisture and light. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed one. Never double up or stop suddenly.
Overdose
Overdose can cause dangerously slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and heart conduction problems. Call emergency services immediately.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
Metoprolol (as tartrate or succinate, depending on formulation)
Brand names (as verified)
Lopressor; Betaloc; Toprol-XL (salt and release forms vary)
Dosage form
Tablet
Strength
Multiple strengths are available; immediate-release and extended-release products are not automatically interchangeable.
Prescription classification
Prescription only (Schedule H / verified)
Approved routes of administration
Oral
Applies to
IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction
Approved indications
A selective beta-1 blocker used for hypertension, angina, heart failure, certain arrhythmias, and prevention of complications after a heart attack. Also used to prevent migraine in some cases.
Contraindications (do not use if…)
Avoid in people with cardiogenic shock, uncompensated heart failure, severe bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, or second/third-degree AV block without a pacemaker. Avoid with certain calcium-channel blockers.
Important precautions
Do not stop suddenly ‚ taper the dose under medical supervision to avoid rebound hypertension or angina. Use with caution in asthma and COPD. Monitor blood sugar in diabetic patients, as metoprolol can mask hypoglycaemia signs.
Common side effects
Common effects include fatigue, dizziness, cold hands and feet, slow heartbeat, and shortness of breath.
Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent care for very slow heartbeat, severe breathlessness, significant drop in blood pressure, or worsening of heart failure symptoms.
Important interactions
Interactions include verapamil, diltiazem, other antihypertensives, antiarrhythmics, MAOIs, clonidine, and insulin or antidiabetics. Tell your doctor about all medicines.
Allergy considerations
Report any allergy to metoprolol or other beta-blockers. Check excipients in the specific formulation.
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Use only when clearly needed and after specialist assessment. Some beta-blockers have been associated with foetal growth restriction and low birth weight ‚ monitor closely.
Information
Lactation safety
Use with caution — see notes
Notes
Metoprolol passes into breast milk in small amounts. Short-term or low-dose use is generally considered acceptable ‚ confirm with your doctor.
Children and older adults
Not routinely licensed for children in most indications. In older adults, start at a low dose and increase slowly while monitoring blood pressure and heart rate.
Storage
Store below 25°C in the original pack, away from moisture and light. Keep out of children's reach.
Missed dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed one. Never double up or stop suddenly.
Overdose
Overdose can cause dangerously slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and heart conduction problems. Call emergency services immediately.
If you suspect an overdose or accidental poisoning:
contact your local emergency services or the nearest hospital emergency department immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
