Lopressor

Generic name: Metoprolol tartrate

What is Lopressor?

Lopressor is a medication known as beta-blocker that is used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), and heart attack.

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 angina or even a heart attack.

Lopressor may mask the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, especially in people with high blood sugar (diabetes). 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.

If you have a tumor of the adrenal gland, which causes high blood pressure (pheochromocytoma), your doctor will prescribe you another type of blood pressure medication before you start taking Lopressor.

Inform your physician or dentist before undergoing any type of surgery that you are taking Lopressor.

Who should not take Lopressor?

You should not take Lopressor if you have been diagnosed with heart conditions called sinus bradycardia (a type of slow heartbeat), heart block >1st degree, cardiogenic shock, severe heart failure or sick-sinus syndrome. You should not take Lopressor if your heart beats <45 times per minute or if your systolic blood pressure (the top number) is <100mmHg. Also, you should not take Lopressor if you have been diagnosed with a severe peripheral circulatory disorder (in which blood flow to the legs and arms is reduced), pheochromocytoma or if 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, wheezing, shortness of breath, or any other disease that can make it hard for you to breathe, overactive thyroid, or if you have suffered a heart attack before. 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 Pectoris

Adults: The usual starting dose is 100 milligrams (mg) a day, split into 2 doses. If necessary, your doctor may increase your individual dose up to 400 mg per day.

High Blood Pressure

Adults: The usual starting dose is 100 mg a day, split into 2 doses. If necessary, your doctor may increase your individual dose up to 450 mg per day.

Heart Attack

If your doctor suspects that you are having a heart attack, he/she may give you Lopressor at a dose of 5 mg intravenously every 2 minutes for a total of 3 doses. Depending on your response, your doctor may give you additional intravenous doses, and after 2 days may start you on 100 mg per day in divided doses.

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?

You should avoid operating an automobile or 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: bupronion, cimetidine, diphenhydramine, hydroxychloroquine, paroxetine, propafenone, quinidine, quinine, reserpine (or any other catecholamine-depleting medications), ritonavir, terbinafine, thioridazine

If you have a history of severe allergic reactions to common allergens, Lopressor may cause you to have a more severe reaction if you come in contact with these allergens.

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.

How should I store Lopressor?

Store at room temperature and away from heat, light, and moisture.