Metoprolol succinate ER is a drug used to treat high blood pressure, which is also called hypertension. It is sold under the brand name Toprol-XL and as a generic drug, and it is an extended-release tablet taken orally. It may be used by itself or together with other drugs to control high blood pressure.
Uses
Metoprolol succinate is also used to treat angina pectoris and some types of heart failure. Angina pectoris is chest pain or discomfort caused by coronary heart disease.
Side effects
Some side effects have been reported by people taking metoprolol succinate ER, according to AstraZeneca, which manufactures Toprol-XL. Tiredness and exhaustion were reported by one in 10 people, and depression was reported by one in 20 people. Some people have experienced rashes, diarrhea, nausea, upset stomachs and headaches.
More serious adverse effects include a slow heart rate, called bradycardia, and cardiac problems, according to the Nursing Drug Handbook. People experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, as they may be life-threatening.
Availability
Metoprolol succinate ER is available under the brand name Toprol-XL and as a generic, according to information from the Food and Drug Administration. The manufacturer of Toprol-XL is AstraZeneca. The generic version is manufactured by several companies, including KV Pharmaceuticals and Sandoz Inc. It is available as a pill, which is taken orally; the pills are available in 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg dosages.
About High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is also called hypertension, according to the Mayo Clinic. Blood pressure shows how much blood is being pumped and how much resistance is offered by arteries. If the arteries are constricted or if the heart is pumping hard, blood pressure will be higher.
Hypertension usually develops over years. Because of this, it is important to take consistent blood pressure readings. Readings may vary, depending on the machine, but a consistent increase should be reported to a physician.
Considerations
People should not stop taking metoprolol succinate abruptly, according to the Nursing Drug Handbook. They should be weaned off of it over one or two weeks.
Abrupt discontinuation of use can result in a heart attack, according to AstraZeneca.
Also, patients who are new to taking metoprolol succinate should avoid operating machines until they know how it will affect them, according to the manufacturer. Patients should also notify their doctors if they experience difficulty breathing.
Women who are nursing should not take metoprolol succinate, according to the Nursing Drug Handbook.
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