Lopressor

The active ingredient in Lopressor is metoprolol tartrate. It belongs to a group of medications called beta-blockers. Lopressor blocks beta receptors in the heart. This works to lower blood pressure and heart rate by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood to the rest of the body to improve blood flow.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Lopressor. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Lopressor:

• Lopressor is typically taken by mouth twice a day.
• If a dose of metoprolol is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose.

The most common side effects of metoprolol include:

• Dizziness.
• Headache.
• Low blood pressure.
• Diarrhea.
• Constipation.
• Rash.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Lopressor. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Allergic reactions - skin rash, itching, hives, swelling.
• Heart failure - shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, unusual tiredness.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension) - dizziness, feeling lightheaded, blurry vision.
• Raynaud's syndrome- cool, numb, or painful fingers or toes.
• Bronchospasm - trouble breathing, wheezing, cough, dizziness, and extreme tiredness.
• Slow heartbeat - confusion, dizziness, unusual fatigue.
• Worsening mood.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Lopressor. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Lopressor, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Diabetes.
• Heart or vessel disease (slow heart rate, heart failure, heart block, sick sinus syndrome, Raynaud's disease).
• Kidney disease.
• Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
• Liver disease.
• Lung or breathing disease (asthma, emphysema).
• Pheochromocytoma.
• Allergic reaction to metoprolol or other beta blockers.
• Pregnant.
• Breastfeeding.

• Lopressor is contraindicated in patients with sinus bradycardia, second- or third-degree heart block, cardiogenic shock, cardiac failure, sick sinus syndrome, peripheral arterial circulatory disorders, and previous hypersensitivity/allergic reaction to other beta-blockers.

Metoprolol starts to work after about 2 hours, but it can take up to 1 week to take full effect.

When Lopressor is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Medications for blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heartbeat/heart rate (clonidine, digoxin, and calcium channel blockers like verapamil).
• CYP2D6 inhibitors (diphenhydramine, fluoxetine, bupropion, thioridazine).
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO).
• Dobutamine.
• Epinephrine.
• Isoproterenol.
• Reserpine.

Lopressor is an oral tablet available in the following strengths:

• 25 mg.
• 37.5 mg.
• 50 mg.
• 75 mg.
• 100 mg.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Alembic Pharms LTD is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Lopressor.

There are lower-cost generics available for the brand name Lopressor.

Do not stop or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting with your doctor as it can increase your risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) or chest pain. It is necessary to slowly reduce and taper the dose over some time and then stop the drug.

Available data does not show that Lopressor would negatively affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Lopressor is known to pass into breast milk but side effects in breastfed infants have not been reported. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.