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Metoprolol

Brand names: Lopressor, Toprol-XL

Metoprolol is a beta blocker that slows the heart rate and lowers blood pressure.

Brand namesLopressor, Toprol-XL
Type of medicineBeta blocker
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It blocks adrenaline's effect on the heart, so the heart beats slower and with less force.

There are two forms: metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor, usually twice a day) and metoprolol succinate (Toprol-XL, once a day). They are not interchangeable dose-for-dose.

What it's used for

  • High blood pressure
  • Chest pain (angina)
  • After a heart attack
  • Heart failure (succinate form)
  • Controlling heart rate in atrial fibrillation

How to take it

  • Take it with a meal or right after one, at the same times each day.
  • Don't crush or chew extended-release tablets (you may split scored ones if your pharmacist says so).
  • Don't stop suddenly. Stopping too fast can cause chest pain or a heart attack. Your provider will lower the dose slowly.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Slow heartbeat
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Depressed mood or vivid dreams
Call 911Chest pain, fainting, or very slow heartbeat
Call 911Wheezing or trouble breathing
Call your provider todaySudden weight gain, swelling in the legs, or worsening shortness of breath

Warnings

  • It can hide signs of low blood sugar, such as a fast heartbeat.
  • Use with caution in asthma or COPD.
  • Tell anyone doing surgery that you take it.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Other heart-rate medicines (diltiazem, verapamil, digoxin, amiodarone) can slow the heart too much.
  • Some antidepressants (fluoxetine, paroxetine, bupropion) can raise metoprolol levels.
  • Clonidine: stopping either one needs a careful plan.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Sometimes used in pregnancy. Talk with your provider.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.