Metoprolol is a beta blocker commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure, certain heart rhythm problems, chest pain, and heart failure, and to reduce the risk of future heart problems after a heart attack.
Like all medications, it can cause side effects, but many people take it without experiencing significant problems.
Some of the more common side effects include:
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia).
- Cold hands and feet.
- Low blood pressure.
- Shortness of breath or reduced exercise tolerance in some people.
- Sleep changes, such as insomnia or vivid dreams (less common than with some other beta blockers).
- Depression or mood changes (reported in some people, though the relationship is not always clear).
- Nausea or diarrhea.
- Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido or erectile difficulties in some patients.
Serious side effects (less common)
Seek prompt medical attention if you experience:
- Fainting or severe dizziness.
- Very slow heartbeat.
- Worsening shortness of breath or wheezing.
- Swelling of the legs with worsening heart failure symptoms.
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Important precautions
- Do not stop metoprolol suddenly. Abruptly stopping it can lead to rebound high blood pressure, chest pain, or, in some people, a heart attack. If it needs to be discontinued, it is usually tapered under medical supervision.
- Take it exactly as prescribed. Some forms are intended to be taken with or immediately after food.
If you’re taking metoprolol and develop bothersome side effects, contact the clinician who prescribed it. They may adjust the dose or determine whether a different medication would be a better fit. Never change the dose or stop taking it without medical guidance unless you’ve been instructed to do so.
