Learn about 10 common metoprolol side effects, including tiredness, dizziness, slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, and sleep changes, plus when to contact your doctor.
Metoprolol is a beta-blocker used to treat several cardiovascular conditions, including high blood pressure, angina, certain abnormal heart rhythms, and heart failure. It works by slowing the heart rate and reducing the amount of work the heart has to do.
Many people take metoprolol without major problems, but side effects can occur. Some are mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication, while others should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Here are 10 side effects worth knowing about.
1. Tiredness and Fatigue
Feeling more tired than usual is one of the side effects people may notice when starting metoprolol.
Because the medicine slows the heart rate and reduces the heart’s workload, some people may temporarily feel less energetic or find exercise more difficult.
If fatigue is severe, persistent, or interfering with everyday activities, speak with your doctor.
2. Dizziness
Metoprolol can lower blood pressure and slow your heartbeat, which may make you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
This can be especially noticeable when standing up quickly.
Try getting up slowly from a sitting or lying position. If dizziness is frequent, severe, or accompanied by fainting, contact your healthcare professional.
3. Slow Heartbeat
A slower heart rate is an intended effect of metoprolol, but occasionally it can become too slow.
Be especially attentive if a slow heartbeat occurs together with:
- Severe weakness
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Confusion
- Shortness of breath
Your healthcare professional can determine whether your heart rate is appropriate for your treatment.
4. Low Blood Pressure
Metoprolol may lower blood pressure, which is often the purpose of treatment.
However, excessive blood-pressure reduction can cause lightheadedness, weakness, blurred vision, or fainting.
If you repeatedly experience these symptoms, your medication and blood pressure may need to be reviewed.
5. Cold Hands and Feet
Some people notice that their fingers, hands, toes, or feet feel colder while taking a beta-blocker.
This can happen because beta-blockers can affect circulation in the extremities.
If your hands or feet become painful, numb, unusually pale, or bluish, contact your healthcare professional.
6. Sleep Problems or Vivid Dreams
Metoprolol may cause changes in sleep in some people.
Possible complaints include:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking during the night
- Unusual or vivid dreams
If these problems persist, discuss them with your doctor rather than changing your medication schedule yourself.
7. Nausea or Digestive Problems
Some people experience nausea or other digestive symptoms while taking metoprolol.
Taking the medication exactly as directed and following the instructions that came with your particular formulation may help.
Persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
8. Shortness of Breath or Wheezing
Although metoprolol is relatively selective for certain beta receptors, beta-blockers can sometimes affect breathing.
People with asthma or other airway conditions should make sure their doctor knows about their respiratory history.
New or worsening wheezing, chest tightness, or breathing difficulty should be evaluated promptly.
Severe difficulty breathing requires emergency medical attention.
9. Mood Changes
Some people report changes in mood while taking beta-blockers. However, mood symptoms can also have many other causes, including underlying illness, stress, and other medications.
If you develop persistent sadness, loss of interest, or other significant mood changes, tell your healthcare professional.
10. Sexual Difficulties
Some people taking metoprolol report changes in sexual desire or sexual function.
Cardiovascular disease itself, stress, diabetes, hormonal factors, and other medications can also contribute.
If this becomes bothersome, discuss it with your doctor. Don’t stop metoprolol on your own.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
Some symptoms shouldn’t simply be attributed to a medication side effect.
Seek urgent medical attention for severe breathing difficulty, fainting, severe chest pain, signs of a serious allergic reaction, or rapidly worsening symptoms.
For less urgent but persistent problems, contact your doctor or pharmacist. They can determine whether metoprolol is responsible and whether your treatment needs adjustment.
Never Stop Metoprolol Suddenly
One of the most important things to remember is that metoprolol should not generally be stopped abruptly without medical advice.
Suddenly stopping a beta-blocker can cause a rapid increase in heart rate or blood pressure and may worsen certain heart conditions.
If you believe you’re experiencing side effects, speak with your healthcare professional about the safest way to adjust or discontinue treatment if appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Metoprolol is an important medication for many people with cardiovascular conditions. Tiredness, dizziness, slower heart rate, low blood pressure, cold extremities, sleep changes, and digestive symptoms are among the problems that may occur.
Side effects vary from person to person, and a symptom doesn’t necessarily mean you need to stop the medicine.
If you’re taking metoprolol and notice something unusual or troublesome, keep track of your symptoms and discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist. They can review your dose, other medications, medical conditions, and overall response to treatment.