Metoprolol er
What is it?
Metoprolol er is a prescription drug that is used to help treat high blood pressure, heart pain, abnormal rhythms of the heart and to treat or prevent a heart attack.
The ‘ER’ in ‘Metoprolol er’ stands for extended release. It is important to be aware of effects on pregnancy as well as common side effects.
Other uses for Metoprolol er include preventing migraine headaches and the treatment of certain tremors.
The Food and Drug Administration approved Metoprolol in August 1978
How does it work?
Metoprolol er is in a group of drugs called ‘Beta blockers’ which affect the heart and blood circulation; It works by blocking the sympathetic nerves. The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for making the heart beat increase.
By blocking the action of the nerves; Metoprolol er reduces the heart rate, which is useful when treating abnormally rapid heart-beats.
Not only does Metoprolol er decrease the heart rate, it also reduces the force of the contraction of the heart muscle which lowers blood pressure.
By reducing the force of the contraction of the heart muscle and lowering the heart rate, Metoprolol er also reduces the need of oxygen for the heart muscle which helps to treat heart pain.
Important information about metoprolol er:
If you are a nursing mother, small amounts of metoprolol excrete in to breast milk and may cause adverse effects in your baby. Do not take this medication without informing your doctor that you are breastfeeding first.
Metoprolol er may effect your thinking or reactions, be careful and aware when driving or doing anything that requires you to be alert.
If at any point you find that you need surgery, make the surgeon aware beforehand that you are taking metoprolol.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication – even if you feel fine.
Don’t stop taking this medication without discussing with your doctor first as metoprolol er could possibly make your condition worse if stopped suddenly.
Some people who have suddenly stopped taking similar drugs have had chest pain, heart attacks and irregular heartbeat.
If you wish to stop taking Metroprolol er, the dosage should be gradually reduced over 1-2 weeks, if you are gradually stopping this medication it is advised to limit physical activity to reduce strain on the heart.
Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking this medication as it is not known if metoprolol will effect your unborn baby.
You should not use this medication if you have a slow heart rate or a serious heart problem such as heart block as meteprolol can cause dangerously low heart rates or even shock.
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