Metoprolol is the generic name for two common drugs. One is Toprol XL, traditionally prescribed for those who suffer from diabetes. Another brand name for this drug is Lopressor. This drug is frequently prescribed for those suffering from migraines.
Metoprolol is a drug that lowers blood pressure. It is a medicine that cannot be stopped “cold turkey”. If you do not gradually decrease the doses, you run the risk of making your initial problems even worse than they were originally.
My father has been taking the version of Metoprolol known as the Oral Extended Release. Its brand name is Toprol XL. He takes it to relieve his neuropathy, due to his diabetes. He has never experienced any side effects from taking this drug.
A couple of my friends who suffer from migraines have tried the version of Metoprolol known as Lopressor. One took it daily and experienced no adverse side effects. Another one takes it only when she feels a migraine coming on, which is at least once a week. She then has a tendency to feel some lightheadedness and disconnect, but it is hard to pinpoint whether that is the actual migraine or if it is a result from taking the medication.
WebMD recommends that you use both drugs on a regular basis, in order to maximize the benefits. However, there are many side effects that could indicate the need to change your medical therapy.
Side effects for both brand names of the drug are identical, as the generic drug for both is the same.
It takes about one to two weeks for the drug to become normalized in your system. During this normalization period, it is quite common to experience the following side effects: dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, tiredness, diarrhea, vomiting, unusual dreams, trouble sleeping, vision problems. However, if these side effects are prolonged, notify your physician.
It is also common for this medication to reduce the blood flow to your hands and feet, as it does reduce blood pressure. As a result, your hands and feet may feel cold. To alleviate these symptoms, dress warmly and avoid tobacco use.
Unlikely but serious side effects include experiencing symptoms of a slow heartbeat: persistent dizziness, fainting, unusual fatigue, fingers or toes turning blue, numbness or tingling of hands and feet, swelling of hands and feet. Other serious side effects include reversible hair loss, changes in mood or mental state, difficulty breathing, cough, rapid weight gain, increased thirst, increased urination. These serious side effects require immediate medical attention.
Highly unlikely, yet requiring immediate medical attention, are the following very serious side effects: easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, persistent fever, yellowing skin, yellowing eyes, stomach pain, dark urine, persistent nausea.
Signs of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. These signs require immediate medical attention.
Sources:
“Metoprolol Tartrate Oral” WebMD. (Retrieved 2-14-08)http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-11207-Metoprolol+Tartrate+Oral.aspx?drugid=11207&drugname;=Metoprolol+Tartrate+Oral
“Metoprolol Succinate Oral”. WebMD. (Retrieved 2-14-08) http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-8814-Metoprolol+Succinate+Oral.aspx?drugid=8814&drugname;=Metoprolol+Succinate+Oral
