Common side effects (usually mild)

These are the ones most often seen:

• Fatigue or tiredness
• Dizziness (especially when starting)
• Slow heart rate
• Cold hands and feet
• Mild nausea
• Lightheadedness when standing up

⚠️ Less common but important effects

These should be monitored:

• Low blood pressure
• Depression or low mood in some people
• Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams
• Reduced exercise tolerance
• Sexual dysfunction

🚨 Rare but serious side effects (seek medical help)

These are uncommon but important:

• Very slow heartbeat (bradycardia) with weakness or fainting
• Shortness of breath or wheezing (especially in asthma/COPD patients)
• Severe dizziness or collapse
• Swelling of ankles or sudden weight gain (possible heart issues)

🧠 Important medical context

Metoprolol is prescribed because it can:

• Lower risk of heart attack after cardiac events
• Control high blood pressure
• Help manage arrhythmias
• Reduce chest pain (angina)

So doctors balance:

✔ Proven cardiovascular benefits
vs
⚠️ Manageable side effects

⚠️ What you should NOT do

• ❌ Do not stop metoprolol suddenly
  (can cause rebound high blood pressure or heart issues)
• ❌ Do not change dose without medical advice