According to the American Heart Association, 16,800,000 Americans suffer from angina (chest pain) and heart attacks due to coronary heart disease, with an estimated 500,000 new cases being reported each year. Metoprolol, a prescription medication that acts as a bet-blocker, is prescribed to help prevent angina as well as the occurrence of heart attacks. Although it may work well for many, there are a variety of side effects you need to be aware of as well.
Side Effects Most Frequently Seen
When you first begin taking metoprolol, you may notice one or more side effects that, while unpleasant, are not considered dangerous. These side effects include dizziness, depression, dry mouth, vomiting, heartburn, a rash accompanied with or without itching, a runny nose, feeling tired, nausea, stomach pain, bloating caused by gas, constipation or feet and hands that are constantly cold. While any of these symptoms may go away after a short time, the National Institutes of Health recommend that you contact your doctor if they persist or become worse.
Uncommon But Serious
If you find yourself becoming short of breath, notice that your hands, arms, feet and legs begin to swell or you feel faint, you need to call your doctor promptly. These side effects can be an indication of a more serious problem or complication caused by metoprolol. You also need to be observant for any signs of wheezing, a sudden, unexplained gain or a rapid increase in your heart rate.
Low Blood Sugar
Low blood sugar is considered a rare side effect. However, according to eMedTV.com, this medication can make it more difficult for low blood sugar to be detected, which may pose a great risk in people with diabetes. Signs of low blood sugar include but are not limited to profuse sweating, excessive hunger, cold sweats, irritability, difficulty speaking, loss of consciousness or coma.
Danger of an Allergic Reaction
Your doctor cannot be be completely sure how metoprolol will affect you; therefore, it is important to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction. These signs include finding it difficult to breath due to a swelling of your mouth, lips, tongue or throat; wheezing; and hives.
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