Lopressor
Generic Name: Metoprolol
What is Lopressor?
Lopressor is a medication known as a beta-blocker that is used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina).What is the most important information I should know about Lopressor?
Do not abruptly stop taking Lopressor without first consulting your doctor. Suddenly stopping Lopressor therapy may lead to worsening chest pain or even a heart attack.Lopressor may hide the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, especially in people with high blood sugar. If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar frequently, especially when you first start taking Lopressor.
If you have a disease that can make it hard to breathe, such as wheezing (asthma) or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or thyroid problems, Lopressor can worsen your condition. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience shortness of breath.
Inform your physician or dentist before undergoing any type of surgery that you are taking Lopressor.
Taking Lopressor over a period of time may lead to heart failure.
Who should not take Lopressor?
Do not take Lopressor if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Lopressor?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Lopressor. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have high blood sugar due to diabetes, wheezing, shortness of breath, or any other disease that can make it hard for you to breathe, have an overactive thyroid, liver problems, or if you have suffered a heart attack. Tell your doctor if you have a history of severe allergic reactions to allergens, because Lopressor may decrease the effectiveness of epinephrine.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Angina (Chest Pain)
Adults: The usual starting dose is 100 milligrams (mg) a day, split into two doses. If necessary, your doctor may increase your individual dose.
Blood Pressure
Adults: The usual starting dose is 100 mg a day, taken as a single dose or split into two doses. If necessary, your doctor may increase your dose.
How should I take Lopressor?
You should take Lopressor with or immediately following meals, and should take it at the same time every day.What should I avoid while taking Lopressor?
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery as well as engaging in other tasks that require mental alertness until you know how Lopressor will affect you.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Lopressor?
If Lopressor is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lopressor with the following: bupropion, cimetidine, diphenhydramine, hydroxychloroquine, paroxetine, propafenone, quinidine, quinine, reserpine, ritonavir, terbinafine, and thioridazine.What are the possible side effects of Lopressor?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: low blood pressure, tiredness, dizziness, depression, confusion, short-term memory loss, headache, nightmares, sleeplessness, shortness of breath, slow heart-rate, vomiting, diarrhea, itching, rash, heart block, heart failure
Can I receive Lopressor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Lopressor during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Lopressor is excreted in breast milk. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Lopressor?
If you miss a dose of Lopressor, do not double your next dose. Skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Lopressor?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
