Beta-blockers are a type of prescription medication used to lower blood pressure, thus reducing your risk of suffering from a heart attack. They work by slowing the flow of adrenaline in your body, and your blood pressure begins to decrease as well. The less work your heart has to do, the greater your chances of living a life without chest pain or heart attacks. A dozen or more beta- blockers exist to help preserve your health--metoprolol is among them.
Side Effects Commonly Reported
Perhaps the most frequently reported side effect of metoprolol is a slower heart rate, which occurs in 16 percent of those taking it. Fatigue and dizziness are the next in line--each one is reported in 10 percent of those taking this medication. Diarrhea and the appearance of a rash occur in 5 percent of patients while shortness of breath occurs in 3 percent of metoprolol users.
Depression
Depression occurs in 5 percent of patients taking metoprolol. This side effect, of course, could be chalked up to another source, as eMedTV.com has stated that researchers cannot say with certainty that metoprolol is singularly responsible for this side effect. In any case, if you begin to feel sad, hopeless or begin having suicidal thoughts, report the issue to your doctor.
Serious Side Effects to Report
According to the experts at Drugs.com, if you experience any of the serious side effects of metoprolol, you need to report them to your doctor immediately. These side effects include unexplained swelling of any body part, chest pain, feeling confused, rapid weight gain, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, experiencing fainting spells and the development of an arrhythmia (an irregular heartbeat). Nausea, a decrease in your appetite or signs of jaundice (yellowing of your skin and eyes), are also side effects tat may result in long-term health complications.
The Possibility of Overdose
An overdose is not always intentional; in some cases, it happens quite by accident. Whatever your specific case may be, knowing the signs of an overdose can save your life. These signs include dizziness or faint, swelling in your limbs or extremities and difficulty with breathing or swallowing. In cases such as these, the National Institutes of Health recommends contacting you local poison control center immediately.
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