In this video Doctor O'Donovan explains key facts you need to know about Metoprolol - also known by its brand name 'Lopressor' - a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart problems and migraine.

What is Metoprolol?

Metoprolol is a type of medicine called a beta blocker. Like other beta blockers, metoprolol works by changing the way your body responds to some nerve impulses, especially in the heart. It slows down your heart rate and makes it easier for your heart to pump blood around your body.

What doses of Metoprolol / Tablet Strengths and Uses are available?

Metoprolol is available in 50mg and 100mg strengths, used for treating high blood pressure, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, migraine prevention, and thyrotoxicosis, with varying dosages specific to each condition.

Administration Guidelines

Metoprolol an be taken with or without food, tablets should be swallowed whole with water, and some can be split in half if indicated. The first dose might be recommended at bedtime due to possible dizziness, otherwise taken in the morning, with evenly spaced doses if multiple are required daily.

Duration and Discontinuation

Metoprolol treatment is typically long-term, potentially lifelong. Stopping abruptly can worsen the condition, so a doctor's guidance is needed for cessation. The medicine takes 1 to 2 days to leave the body after stopping.

Overdose Risks and Actions

Overdose effects vary but can include slowed heart rate, breathing difficulties, dizziness, and trembling. Immediate medical advice is necessary if an overdose occurs. Bring medication packet and any remaining pills to the emergency services.

Are there any side effects of metoprolol?

According to the NHS UK website "Metoprolol is generally safe to take for a long time. In fact, it works best when taken for long periods of time."

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Content and timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
01:03 - Who can and can't take metoprolol (lopressor)
01:57 - How and when to take metoprolol
05:04 - Side effects
06:50 - Interactions with other medications
08:33 - Common questions

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References and resources

NHS information: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/metoprolol/

WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-88...

National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE UK): https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/metopro...

#doctor #health #medication #pharmacy #lopressor #metoprolol #betablocker #bloodpressure #highbloodpressure #hypertension

Video published: 1st April 2024. Next review: 2027.
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The video is intended as an educational resource only. The information within this video or on this channel isn't designed to replace professional input, so if you have any medical issues please consult a medical provider. No professional relationship is being created by watching this video. Dr. O'Donovan cannot give any individual medical advice. All information should be verified for accuracy by the individual user. Dr O'Donovan accepts no responsibility for individual interpretation of data, although it is always accurate to the best of his knowledge at the time of the video being published. This is an EDUCATIONAL video. Images are used in accordance with fair use guidelines.

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