Toprol-XL
Generic Name: Metoprolol
What is Toprol-XL?
Toprol-XL is used to treat angina (chest pain caused by too little oxygen reaching the heart muscle), high blood pressure, and heart failure.What is the most important information I should know about Toprol-XL?
You must take Toprol-XL regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Toprol-XL. You must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Toprol-XL does not cure high blood pressure. It only keeps it under control.Do not stop taking Toprol-XL suddenly. It can result in increased chest pain and possibly a heart attack. When stopping the drug, your doctor will gradually reduce your dosage.
Avoid potentially hazardous activities, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know the effect Toprol-XL has on you.
Contact your doctor if you experience any difficulty breathing while taking Toprol-XL.
Inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Toprol-XL before you have any type of surgery.
If you are taking Toprol-XL to treat heart failure, inform your doctor if you experience signs or symptoms of worsening heart failure, such as weight gain or increasing shortness of breath.
Who should not take Toprol-XL?
Do not take Toprol-XL if you have a slow heartbeat, a history of serious heart block, inadequate blood supply to the circulatory system, decompensated heart failure, sick sinus syndrome (unless a permanent pacemaker is in place), or if you are sensitive to any component of this drug.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Toprol-XL?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Toprol-XL. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have asthma, diabetes, liver disease, heart failure, thyroid disease, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, an adrenal gland tumor, or are undergoing major surgery.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.Chest Pain
Adults: The usual starting dose is 100 milligrams (mg) daily. If an optimal response is not achieved, your doctor may increase the dose.
Blood Pressure
Adults: The usual starting dose is 25-100 mg daily, either alone or in combination with other drugs. Full effects should be seen in 1 week. If an optimal response is not achieved, your doctor may increase the dose.
Children 6-16 years: Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose for your child.
Heart Failure
Adults: Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose for you.
How should I take Toprol-XL?
It is very important to take this medicine as your doctor has prescribed, even if you do not feel ill. This is because heart and blood pressure problems, if not treated, can progressively worsen.Toprol-XL can be taken with or without food. Take Toprol-XL with or immediately following meals.
What should I avoid while taking Toprol-XL?
Try not to miss any doses. If this medication is not taken regularly, your condition may worsen.Avoid activities that require full mental alertness until you know how you respond to the drug.
Avoid using alcohol because it may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking this medication.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Toprol-XL?
If Toprol-XL 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 Toprol-XL with the following: calcium channel blockers (such as diltiazem and verapamil), clonidine, digoxin, fluoxetine, monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, quinidine, paroxetine, propafenone, or reserpine.What are the possible side effects of Toprol-XL?
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: tiredness, dizziness, depression, diarrhea, shortness of breath, slow heart beat, rash
Toprol-XL may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar or change blood sugar levels.
Can I receive Toprol-XL if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Toprol-XL during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. 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 Toprol-XL?
If a dose is missed, only take the next scheduled dose. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Toprol-XL?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
