If you’re looking for a practical guide to metoprolol side effects, here are 10 that people may experience. Metoprolol is a beta blocker that slows the heart rate and is used for conditions including high blood pressure, angina, and certain abnormal heart rhythms.
10 common side effects of metoprolol
- Tiredness or fatigue — One of the more frequently reported effects, particularly when starting treatment.
- Dizziness or light-headedness — Metoprolol can lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate, which may make you feel dizzy.
- Weakness — Some people feel generally weak or less energetic, especially early in treatment.
- Headache — Headaches are a commonly reported side effect and often improve as the body adjusts.
- Nausea — Feeling sick can occur; taking the medicine after food may help some people.
- Stomach discomfort or abdominal pain — Gastric pain and related digestive symptoms have been reported.
- Diarrhea — Digestive changes, including diarrhea, can occur with metoprolol.
- Vomiting — Some people experience vomiting, particularly among the gastrointestinal effects reported with metoprolol.
- Cold hands or feet — Beta blockers can affect circulation to the extremities, leaving fingers or toes feeling cold.
- Slow heartbeat (bradycardia) — Because metoprolol intentionally slows the heart, some people can develop a heart rate that’s slower than intended.
When should you seek medical help?
Contact a healthcare professional if side effects are severe, persistent, or interfering with daily activities. More concerning symptoms include significant shortness of breath, swelling of the legs or ankles, fainting, an unusually slow heartbeat, or worsening heart symptoms.
Do not stop metoprolol suddenly on your own. Abrupt withdrawal can worsen the underlying heart condition and, in some circumstances, increase the risk of serious cardiac problems. Your prescriber can advise you on whether and how to taper it.
Also, the exact side-effect profile can differ depending on whether you’re taking metoprolol tartrate or metoprolol succinate, your dose, and why you’ve been prescribed it.
If you tell me your metoprolol dose, whether it is tartrate or succinate, and which side effect you’re experiencing, I can explain what it may mean and when it warrants contacting your doctor.
