Generic Metoprolol

There are currently two types of generic metoprolol available on the market -- Metoprolol Tartrate tablets and Metoprolol Succinate tablets. Metoprolol Tartrate tablets, the immediate-release version of metoprolol, come in 50-mg and 100-mg strengths. The generic extended-release form is available only in a 25-mg strength.

Metoprolol Drug Information

Generic Metoprolol: An Overview

Metoprolol is a prescription medication that is used for lowering high blood pressure (hypertension), relieving angina symptoms, treating congestive heart failure, and improving survival following a heart attack. The medication may also be used for other reasons, such as treatment for migraines or anxiety.

Metoprolol is part of a class of medicines called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, or beta blockers for short. The drug helps to block a specific type of beta receptor called beta-1 receptors. By doing this, metoprolol causes the reverse effect of stress hormones, such as adrenaline (epinephrine). It decreases heart rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as the workload of the heart, meaning that the heart requires less blood and oxygen to work properly.

Metoprolol is sold under the brand names Lopressor^® (immediate-release version) and Toprol-XL^® (extended-release version). Lopressor was originally developed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals, and Toprol-XL was developed by AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals. The patents for these medicines have expired, and generic versions are now available.

Strengths of Generic Metoprolol

The immediate-release version of metoprolol is sold under the name

Metoprolol Tartrate tablets and is available in several strengths, including:

Metoprolol Tartrate 50 mg
Metoprolol Tartrate 100 mg.

Generic Toprol-XL tablets are sold under the name Metoprolol Succinate extended-release tablets and are currently available in the following strengths:

Metoprolol succinate 25 mg
Metoprolol succinate 50 mg
Metoprolol succinate 100 mg
Metoprolol succinate 200 mg.

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