The headline you wrote is clickbait-y and a bit misleading. Metoprolol is a widely prescribed beta-blocker, and most people tolerate it well—especially at standard doses. That said, like all medications, it does have side effects, and some are more important than others.
Here are 10 possible side effects, ranging from common to less common but more serious:
1) Fatigue / Low energy
One of the most common effects. Metoprolol slows your heart rate, so you may feel unusually tired or “slowed down,” especially when starting it.
2) Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
Your pulse can drop too low, which may cause dizziness, weakness, or feeling faint.
3) Low blood pressure
This can lead to lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
4) Cold hands and feet
Reduced circulation in extremities is a classic beta-blocker effect.
5) Dizziness
Often related to lower heart rate or blood pressure changes.
6) Shortness of breath (in some people)
More likely if you have asthma or other lung conditions, since beta-blockers can sometimes tighten airways.
7) Sleep disturbances / vivid dreams
Some people report insomnia, frequent waking, or unusually vivid dreams.
8) Depression or mood changes
Not everyone experiences this, but beta-blockers can affect mood in some individuals.
9) Sexual dysfunction
Lower libido or erectile difficulties can occur in some patients.
10) Masking low blood sugar symptoms (important for diabetics)
It can hide warning signs like rapid heartbeat during hypoglycemia, making lows harder to detect.
Rare but serious warning signs (seek medical help)
- Fainting
- Severe shortness of breath or wheezing
- Very slow pulse with weakness or confusion
- Swelling of feet/legs with sudden weight gain
Important context
Most people taking metoprolol only experience mild side effects (like fatigue), and these often improve after the body adjusts. Doctors prescribe it because its benefits—controlling blood pressure, protecting the heart, and reducing risk after heart attack—are usually much greater than the risks.
If you want, tell me your dose and why it was prescribed, and I can explain which side effects are most likely for your situation and which ones are rare.
