How to Take Metoprolol: Side Effects, Dosage
How to take metoprolol: dosage information, common side effects, and important guidance for heart-related treatment.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Metoprolol
How to Take Metoprolol
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, metoprolol comes in two main forms with different dosing schedules. Follow your prescriber's specific instructions.
Immediate-Release (Metoprolol Tartrate)
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, metoprolol tartrate is usually taken twice daily, with doses typically ranging from 25–100 mg per dose depending on the condition being treated.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, take with food to improve absorption.
- Swallow tablets whole; do not crush unless your prescriber has confirmed it is appropriate for your specific tablet.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose: take it when you remember unless it is close to your next dose; never double up.
Extended-Release (Metoprolol Succinate)
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, metoprolol succinate is taken once daily, typically 25–200 mg per day depending on the condition being treated.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, take with or right after a meal.
- Swallow whole; do not crush or chew. Per prescribing information, the capsule form may be opened and sprinkled on soft food if your prescriber allows.
General Tips
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, do not stop suddenly; metoprolol must be tapered under medical guidance to reduce cardiovascular risk.
- Monitor your pulse if your clinician has instructed you to; bring readings to appointments.
- Maintain consistent timing with meals as directed by your prescriber.
Warnings Before Taking Metoprolol
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, tell your doctor about asthma, COPD, slow heart rate, or heart block before starting metoprolol.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, share any history of heart failure or circulation problems with your prescriber.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, discuss diabetes with your prescriber, as metoprolol may mask signs of low blood sugar.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, do not stop this medication abruptly; sudden discontinuation can increase the risk of angina and myocardial infarction.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, review all current medications with your prescriber to evaluate for potential interactions.
Metoprolol Side Effects
Common
Mild
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, metoprolol can lower blood pressure, which may cause dizziness, particularly when changing positions. Contact your prescriber if this is persistent or severe.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Common
Mild
Fatigue
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, fatigue is a reported adverse effect of metoprolol. This effect may be more common when doses are increased.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
4–12 hours
Common
Moderate
Slow Heart Rate
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, metoprolol reduces heart rate. If the rate becomes too low (bradycardia), you may notice unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, or lightheadedness. Contact your prescriber if these symptoms occur.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
3–6 hours
Common
Mild
Cold Hands or Feet
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, because metoprolol reduces peripheral blood flow, hands or feet may feel cooler. Report significant changes to your prescriber.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
2–8 hours
Common
Mild
Digestive Upset
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some patients experience nausea, mild stomach pain, or loose stools with metoprolol use.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
1–4 hours
Uncommon
Mild
Sleep Changes
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, metoprolol has been associated with sleep disturbances including vivid dreams or insomnia in some patients.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.
Normally lasts for:
4–10 hours
Contact Us for a Personalized Care Plan
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What If You Forgot to Take Metoprolol
What If You Forgot to Take Metoprolol?
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, as long as it is not close to your next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for the next one, skip the missed dose.
Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, do not stop taking metoprolol abruptly. If you have missed multiple doses, contact your clinician before resuming.
If you experience unusual symptoms after a missed dose, contact your prescriber or care team for guidance.
What If You Took Too Much Metoprolol
What If You Took Too Much Metoprolol?
Contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 right away. Per FDA-approved prescribing information, metoprolol overdose may cause severe bradycardia (very slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), and acute heart failure.
- Do not take additional doses until you have spoken with Poison Control or a clinician.
- If symptoms such as very slow heartbeat, severe dizziness, fainting, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness occur, seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Keep this and all medications out of reach of children.
How Much Does Metoprolol Cost
Cost of Metoprolol With Insurance
With most insurance plans, metoprolol is typically placed on a preferred generic tier. Copay amounts vary by plan design, deductible status, and whether you receive metoprolol tartrate or metoprolol succinate.
Contact your insurer or pharmacist for current formulary information and estimated out-of-pocket costs specific to your plan.
How Much Does Metoprolol Cost without Insurance
Cost of Metoprolol Without Insurance
Metoprolol is available as a generic medication at many U.S. pharmacies. Cash-pay prices vary by the pharmacy, dosage form (tartrate vs. succinate), dose strength, and quantity dispensed.
Discount programs offered by pharmacy chains and third-party services may reduce out-of-pocket costs. Contact your local pharmacy for current cash pricing. Prices are subject to change and vary by location.
Resources:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/017963s083,018704s033lbl.pdf
https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682864.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/metoprolol-oral-route/description/drg-20071141
https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/metoprolol
https://www.drugs.com/monograph/metoprolol.html
