Lopressor (Metoprolol) belongs to the class of medications called beta-blockers. Metoprolol is used to treat high blood pressure and prevent the symptoms of angina (chest pain). It is also used to help reduce the risk of death right after a heart attack. It works by reducing the demands put on the heart. This medication is also taken by people who have had a heart attack to reduce the risk of having another one. Metoprolol is often used in combination with other high blood pressure medications such as diuretics (water pills) when the use of one medication by itself is not enough to control blood pressure. The recommended dose of metoprolol ranges from 100 mg daily to 400 mg daily.
Manufacturer Information
We currently have the brand (also called Lopresor) from India manufactured by Novartis and the generic comes from Canada and UK. Lopressor is available in tablet form and strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.
Call your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
• Back or joint pain;
• Breathing difficulty or wheezing;
• Chest pain;
• Cold hands and feet;
• Confusion;
• Hallucinations;
• Irregular heartbeat;
• Red, scaling or crusted skin;
• Shortness of breath;
• Skin rash;
• Slow heartbeat;
• Swelling of ankles, feet, or lower legs;
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
Common side effects include:
• Confusion, memory problems;
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness, tired feeling;
• Mild itching or rash;
• Nightmares, trouble sleeping
You should not use this medication if you are allergic to metoprolol, or other beta-blockers. It is unknown whether this medication will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant while using this medication. Metoprolol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old without medical advice. There may be an interaction between metoprolol and other medications such as alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, clonidine, digoxin, lidocaine, rifampin, etc.