10 Metoprolol Side Effects You Should Know About
Metoprolol is a beta-blocker commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, angina, heart failure, certain abnormal heart rhythms, and after a heart attack. It works partly by slowing the heart rate and reducing the heart’s workload.
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Most side effects are mild, but some deserve prompt medical attention.
Tiredness or weakness — One of the more common effects, particularly when starting treatment.
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Dizziness or lightheadedness — This can be more noticeable when standing up because metoprolol can lower blood pressure.
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Slow heartbeat — Because metoprolol deliberately slows the heart, some people can develop an excessively slow pulse.
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Low blood pressure — This may cause weakness, dizziness, or fainting.
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Shortness of breath or wheezing — This is particularly important in people with asthma or other airway disease.
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Cold hands and feet — Reduced peripheral circulation can make the extremities feel unusually cold.
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Sleep problems or vivid dreams — Nightmares and insomnia have been reported.
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Mood or concentration changes — Depression, confusion, and short-term memory problems have been reported, although they aren’t experienced by everyone.
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Digestive problems — Diarrhea, nausea, abdominal discomfort, or dry mouth can occur.
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Swelling or worsening heart-failure symptoms — Swelling of the feet or ankles, unexpected weight gain, increasing breathlessness, or fainting should be reported promptly.
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One very important warning
Don’t suddenly stop metoprolol on your own. Abrupt withdrawal can cause serious heart problems, including worsening chest pain or a heart attack. If you think the medicine is causing side effects, contact the prescribing clinician about adjusting the dose or changing treatment.
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Also, if you have diabetes, metoprolol can make some warning signs of low blood sugar—particularly a fast heartbeat—less noticeable.
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If you tell me your metoprolol dose (for example, 25 mg or 50 mg), whether it’s tartrate or succinate, and what symptoms you’re experiencing, I can explain which side effects are most relevant.
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