What is Metoprolol Succinate ER? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Metoprolol Succinate ER

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

• Take this medicine with a meal or right after a meal. Take this medicine the same way every day, at the same time every day.

• How to take metoprolol succinate ER tablets:

  • Swallow the extended-release metoprolol oral tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

  • The oral tablet is scored to allow it to be cut into two doses. If the doctor asks you to take half a tablet, ask for a demonstration on how to break the tablets correctly.

• How to take metoprolol succinate ER capsules:

  • Swallow the extended-release capsule whole. 

  • Do not crush, break, or chew it. 

  • If you cannot swallow the extended-release capsule, open it and sprinkle the contents over a small amount (teaspoonful) of soft food such as applesauce, pudding, or yogurt. Swallow the mixture within 60 minutes. Do not store for later use.

  • If the capsule needs to be given through a nasogastric tube, mix the contents of the opened capsule with water into a syringe. Gently shake the mixture for about 10 seconds, then flush it through the tube. Rinse the tube with water until all of the medicine is washed out.

• Store metoprolol succinate ER tablets or capsules at room temperature. 

What to do if you miss a dose of Metoprolol Succinate ER

• Doses are taken once per day.

• If a dose is missed, skip the missed dose if it is almost time for the next dose. Take the next dose when it’s scheduled.

• Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Metoprolol Succinate ER contraindications - Who shouldn't take Metoprolol Succinate ER?

• This medicine is not right for everyone. 

• Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to metoprolol or allergic reactions to any of its ingredients. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop a rash, hives, or swelling of the tongue or lips, as these can be signs of an allergic reaction.

• This medicine should never be used by someone diagnosed with any of the following heart problems:

  • A very slow heart rate (severe bradycardia)

  • Symptomatic heart failure (decompensated heart failure)

  • Moderate or severe heart block

  • A heart rhythm problem called sick sinus syndrome (unless a permanent pacemaker is in place)

Metoprolol Succinate ER warnings

• Tell any doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider who treats you that you are using this medicine.

• It is important to take this medication according to the prescribed dosage instructions provided by your doctor on the prescription label.

• Your doctor may need to do lab tests regularly to check on the effects of this medicine and make sure the dose is correct. Keep all appointments.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Tell your doctor if you have:

  • Heart disease or heart failure

  • Heart rhythm abnormalities

  • Slow heart rate

  • Problems with the blood vessels in the legs, arms, hands, and feet

  • Kidney disease

  • Liver disease

  • Lung diseases such as asthma, emphysema, or bronchitis

  • Diabetes

  • Thyroid problems

  • Adrenal gland cancer 

• This medicine may worsen the symptoms of heart failure. Your prescriber may ask that you check your body weight regularly to catch early signs that it is worsening.

• This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.

• Metoprolol may cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in people who are not eating regular meals or vomiting.

• Higher doses of metoprolol should be avoided right before major surgery.

• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine and its possible adverse effects affect you.

• Medication is only one aspect of treating heart disease. Lifestyle changes, regular exercise, and a heart healthy diet play a crucial role in preventing heart disease and lowering your risk of heart conditions.

Metoprolol Succinate ER interactions & what to avoid when taking Metoprolol Succinate ER

• To avoid potentially hazardous drug interactions, tell the prescribing healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements you use before taking metoprolol.

• Tell other healthcare providers you are using this medicine before they prescribe new medications. You should not take immediate-release metoprolol in combination with the long-acting form of metoprolol.

• Some medicines can affect how metoprolol works or increase the risk or severity of side effects. Alternatively, metoprolol can affect how other medicines work. Tell your doctor if you are taking:

  • Heart rhythm medications, particularly digoxin, propafenone, and quinidine

  • Calcium channel blockers (a class of blood pressure treatment medications)

  • Other drugs that act upon beta receptors of the heart

  • Migraine treatments called ergot drugs

  • HIV/AIDS drugs

  • Drugs that treat depression, psychosis, or similar mental illnesses

  • MAO inhibitors (MAOIs)

  • The blood pressure drugs clonidine or reserpine

• Do not drink alcohol if you are taking metoprolol extended-release capsules. This may cause the capsule to quickly release its contents, increasing the risk and severity of side effects.

Find more detailed information about metoprolol interactions to avoid here.