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What is this medicine?
METOPROLOL (me TOE proe lole) is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers reduce the workload on the heart and help it to beat more regularly. This medicine is used to treat high blood pressure and to prevent chest pain. It is also used to after a heart attack and to prevent an additional heart attack from occurring.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•diabetes
•heart or vessel disease like slow heart rate, worsening heart failure, heart block, sick sinus syndrome or Raynaud's disease
•kidney disease
•liver disease
•lung or breathing disease, like asthma or emphysema
•pheochromocytoma
•thyroid disease
•an unusual or allergic reaction to metoprolol, other beta-blockers, medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for injection into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double doses. You must leave a suitable interval between doses. If you have to take a missed dose make sure there is at least 2 to 4 hours between doses.What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
•sotalol
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
•clonidine
•digoxin
•dobutamine
•epinephrine
•isoproterenol
•medicine to control heart rhythm like quinidine, propafenone
•medicine for depression like monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, fluoxetine, and paroxetine
•medicine for high blood pressure like calcium channel blockers
•reserpine
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives
•breathing problems
•cold or numb hands or feet
•depression
•feeling faint
•fever with sore throat
•irregular heartbeat, chest pain
•rapid weight gain
•swollen legs or ankles
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•anxiety or nervousness
•change in sex drive or performance
•dry skin
•headache
•nightmares or trouble sleeping
•short term memory loss
•stomach upset or diarrhea
•unusually tired
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
