Lopressor is a medication used to treat high blood pressure, angina (chest pain), and to reduce the risk of death after a heart attack. It works by blocking certain signals in the heart, which helps to lower heart rate and blood pressure, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. You typically take it as a tablet once a day with food, starting at a dose of 100 mg, which can be increased up to a maximum of 450 mg daily as needed. It's important to know that Lopressor should not be taken if you have severe slow heart rate or certain heart conditions. Additionally, if you are taking drugs that affect the liver enzyme CYP2D6, such as quinidine, it can significantly increase the levels of Lopressor in your body, so talk to your doctor about any medications you are using.
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Uses
- Hypertension.
- Angina Pectoris.
- Myocardial Infarction.
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Dosage
Take with or after meals.
Hypertension: Start with 100 mg daily, adjust as needed.
Angina: Start with 100 mg daily in two doses.
Myocardial Infarction: Follow intravenous dosing instructions.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
tirednessdizzinessdepressionshortness of breathbradycardiahypotensiondiarrhearashworsening angina or myocardial infarctionAV block
Serious
worsening heart failure
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- May worsen angina or heart failure.
- Do not use if you have severe heart block.
- Monitor for low blood pressure and slow heart rate.
- Caution with catecholamine-depleting drugs.
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Drug interactions
- Epinephrinemay not work effectivelyCaution
- CYP2D6 Inhibitorsincrease metoprolol levelsCaution
- Clonidinemay cause rebound hypertensionCaution
- Digitalis glycosidesrisk of slow heart rate.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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