Metoprolol: 10 Common Side Effects You Should Know
Metoprolol is a beta-blocker used for conditions including 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.
Most side effects are mild and may improve as your body adjusts. Common or reported effects include:
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Slow heartbeat (bradycardia)
- Low blood pressure
- Diarrhea
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Cold hands and feet
- Sleep problems, such as insomnia or unusual dreams.
Other reported effects include rash or itching, shortness of breath, constipation, heartburn, blurred vision and, less commonly, depression or memory problems.
🚨 When should you contact a doctor?
Seek medical attention if you develop fainting, significant difficulty breathing, swelling of the legs/ankles, unexplained rapid or irregular heartbeat, or substantial weight gain. These can sometimes indicate an important cardiovascular problem.
Metoprolol can also mask some warning signs of low blood sugar, particularly a rapid heartbeat, which is important for people with diabetes.
âť— Don’t stop metoprolol suddenly
This is particularly important. Abruptly stopping metoprolol can cause serious heart problems, including worsening angina and, in some circumstances, heart attack. Dose changes should be made with your prescriber.
