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Metoprolol Warnings and Precautions
There are many important warnings and precautions with metoprolol to be aware of, including potential side effects and people who should not take the medication. Metoprolol is not suitable for everyone and should not be taken by those who have serious congestive heart failure, are allergic to any components of the medicine, or have certain types of irregular heart rhythms.
Prior to taking metoprolol (available as Lopressor® and Toprol-XL®), you should tell your healthcare provider if you have:
- Heart disease, including congestive heart failure, a history of heart attack, or an irregular heart rhythm
- A slow heart rate
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- Depression
- Pheochromocytoma
- Psoriasis
- Hyperthyroidism
- Raynaud's phenomenon or other circulation problems
- A blood vessel disease
- Any allergies, including allergies to other beta blockers, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
- Are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
- Are breastfeeding
- Will be undergoing surgery or anesthesia.
Tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines that you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, antacids, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD