Metoprolol is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain. According to Drugs.com, it belongs to a class of drugs called beta-blockers. It works to relax your blood vessels and, subsequently, allow more blood flow to your heart. Typically if you have high blood pressure, your doctor will likely instruct you to take 100 milligrams daily, says the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, metoprolol's common side effects include a runny nose, rash, fatigue and dry mouth. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, gas, constipation and itching. Other common side effects include bloating and cold extremities. Sometimes, these side effects may become problematic if they don't subside. Notify your doctor if this happens.
Serious Side Effects
Drugs.com says that metoprolol can cause a slow heartbeat (bradycardia) or an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia). It can also cause lightheadedness, fainting spells, difficulty breathing and swelling of your feet and hands. Other dangerous side effects include fever, poor appetite, jaundice (yellowing of your skin) and stomach pain. Get medical help as soon as possible so you can be evaluated. Your doctor may discontinue metoprolol and find a better medication for you.
Contraindications
You should use caution when taking metoprolol if you have a history of heart disease. According to the National Library of Medicine, you may develop heart failure, a condition where your heart is unable to pump enough blood to the rest of your body.
Do not take metoprolol if you suffer from a bronchospastic (condition where your airways suddenly tighten) disease such as asthma, warns the National Library of Medicine. Metoprolol may inadvertently attach to specific receptors in your lung's blood vessels called beta receptors and cause sudden constriction of your airways.
Be cautious when taking metoprolol if you are a diabetic (suffer from elevated blood sugar levels). Metoprolol may cause tachycardia (fast heartbeat) during a hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) reaction without your knowledge.
Avoid metoprolol if you suffer from pheochromocytoma (condition where you have adrenal-secreting tumors on top of your kidneys), says the National Library of Medicine. Metoprolol can paradoxically increase your blood pressure when it is supposed to lower it.
The National Library of Medicine recommends you be careful when combining metoprolol with epinephrine-decreasing medication such as reserpine. This mixture can lead to slow heartbeat, syncope (fainting) and low blood pressure.
Tell your doctor if you take such medications such as clonidine. Dangerous drug interactions can result.
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