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Metoprolol Injection

What is this medication?

METOPROLOL (me TOE proe lole) lowers the risk of death after a heart attack. It works by lowering your blood pressure and heart rate, making it easier for your heart to pump blood to the rest of your body. It belongs to a group of medications called beta blockers.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Lopressor

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Diabetes
  • Heart or vessel disease like slow heart rate, worsening heart failure, heart block, sick sinus syndrome, or Raynaud's disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Lung or breathing disease, like asthma or emphysema
  • Pheochromocytoma
  • Thyroid disease
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to metoprolol, other beta blockers, medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected into a vein. It is given in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. This medication is not for regular use.

What may interact with this medication?

This medication may interact with the following:

  • Certain medications for blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heartbeat
  • Certain medications for depression like monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, fluoxetine, or paroxetine
  • Clonidine
  • Dobutamine
  • Epinephrine
  • Isoproterenol
  • Reserpine

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This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Heart failure—shortness of breath, swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands, sudden weight gain, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
  • Raynaud's—cool, numb, or painful fingers or toes that may change color from pale, to blue, to red
  • Slow heartbeat—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, confusion, trouble breathing, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • Worsening mood, feelings of depression

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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