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Pronunciation

me-TOE-proe-lole

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antianginals, antihypertensives

Pharmacologic Classification: beta blockers

Indications

High Alert


Unlabeled Use:
  • Ventricular arrhythmias/tachycardia.
  • Migraine prophylaxis.
  • Tremors.
  • Aggressive behavior.
  • Drug-induced akathisia.
  • Anxiety.

Action

  • Blocks stimulation of beta1(myocardial)-adrenergic receptors. Does not usually affect beta2(pulmonary, vascular, uterine)-adrenergic receptor sites.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Decreased BP and heart rate.
  • Decreased frequency of attacks of angina pectoris.
  • Decreased rate of cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization in patients with heart failure.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed after oral administration.

Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier, crosses the placenta; small amounts enter breast milk.

Metabolism/Excretion: Mostly metabolized by the liver via the CYP2D6 isoenzyme; the CYP2D6 isoenzyme exhibits genetic polymorphism; 7% of population may be poor metabolizers and may have significantly metoprolol concentrations and an risk of adverse effects.

Half-Life: 3–7 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(cardiovascular effects)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO15 minunknown6–12 hr
PO–ERunknown6–12 hr24 hr
IVimmediate20 min5–8 hr



Maximal effects on BP (chronic therapy) may not occur for 1 wk. Hypotensive effects may persist for up to 4 wk after discontinuation.

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

CV: BRADYCARDIA, heart block, HF, hypotension, peripheral vasoconstriction

Derm: rash

EENT: blurred vision, stuffy nose

Endo: hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia

GI: liver enzymes, constipation, diarrhea, drug-induced hepatitis, dry mouth, flatulence, gastric pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting

GU: erectile dysfunction, libido, urinary frequency

MS: arthralgia, back pain, joint pain

Neuro: fatigue, weakness, anxiety, depression, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, memory loss, mental status changes, nervousness, nightmares

Resp: bronchospasm, PULMONARY EDEMA, wheezing

Misc: drug-induced lupus syndrome

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

When switching from immediate-release to extended-release product, the same total daily dose can be used

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

IV Administration:

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Kapspargo Sprinkle, Lopressor, Toprol XL

Pill Image

metoprolol-tartrate_195-1674.jpg

Code

NDC Code