Metoprolol Side Effects

For those who are taking metoprolol, side effects may occur, including nausea, tiredness, shortness of breath, or slow heart rate. Other less common side effects that are reported in less than 1 percent of patients include increased liver enzymes, weight gain, and dry eyes. Metoprolol side effects are generally considered minor and do not require medical attention, but if you experience serious problems such as irregular heartbeat or chest pain, be sure to notify your healthcare provider immediately.

 

Side Effects of Metoprolol: An Overview

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with metoprolol (available as Lopressor® and Toprol-XL®). However, not everyone who takes metoprolol will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medicine well. When side effects do occur, in many cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or a healthcare provider. Serious side effects are a lot less common but can still occur.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with metoprolol. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of metoprolol side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Metoprolol

Metoprolol has been studied extensively in people with
 high blood pressure, angina, and congestive heart failure. In these clinical studies, side effects are always documented and compared to those that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. Based on these studies, the most common metoprolol side effects include:
 
  • Slow heart rate -- up to 16 percent
  • Tiredness -- up to 10 percent
  • Dizziness -- up to 10 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 5 percent
  • Itching or unexplained rash -- up to 5 percent
  • Depression -- up to 5 percent (see Metoprolol and Depression)
  • Shortness of breath -- up to 3 percent.
     
Other common side effects of metoprolol (occurring in more than 1 percent of people) include, but are not limited to:
 
(Metoprolol Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;