Metolar Tablet: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Metolar Tablet contains Metoprolol, a cardioselective beta-1 adrenergic receptor blocker. It works by controlling heart function and reducing strain on the heart, and is used to manage high blood pressure and several other heart-related conditions. It is available as a tablet, capsule, and injection.

What is Metolar Tablet

Metolar Tablet contains Metoprolol, a beta-blocker that works by controlling heart function and reducing strain on the heart. It is used to manage high blood pressure and several other heart-related conditions.

Metolar Tablet uses

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Angina pectoris (chest pain from reduced blood flow to the heart)
• Irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) or palpitations
• Reducing the risk of death after a heart attack
• Preventing migraine headaches
• Symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland (thyrotoxicosis), such as rapid heart rate
• Heart failure

Benefits of Metolar Tablet

• Helps prevent abnormally fast heartbeats
• Lowers blood pressure
• Reduces chest pain by improving the balance between oxygen supply and demand in the heart
• Can lower the risk of further heart problems after a heart attack
• May help prevent migraine attacks

How Metolar Tablet works

Metolar blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, stopping adrenaline-like chemicals from speeding up the heart. This slows the heart rate, reduces how hard the heart contracts, and lowers blood pressure. In chest pain (angina), this reduces how much oxygen the heart muscle needs, easing pain. In heart failure, it slows the heart rate so the heart can pump blood more easily around the body.

Metolar Tablet dosage

Metolar Tablet can be taken with or without food, though taking it with or right after a meal may help reduce stomach upset. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew it. Take it at the same time every day to help you remember and to keep steady levels in your body. Continue taking it even if you feel well, and do not stop without talking to your doctor first, since stopping suddenly can worsen your condition. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember, but do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one. Older adults may need closer monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure while taking this medicine.

Available forms and strengths

• Tablet
• Capsule
• Injection

Side effects of Metolar Tablet

Common

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Slow heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Blurred vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rash
• Weight gain
• Cold hands and feet
• Sleep disturbances
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Abdominal discomfort
• Fluid retention (swelling)
• Pins and needles
• Muscle cramps
• Increased sweating
• Depression or reduced concentration

Serious

• Signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rash, itching, flushing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Very slow heartbeat

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use this medicine if you have a very slow heart rate (bradycardia), as it is not recommended to treat this condition.
• Do not use this medicine if you have second- or third-degree heart block, a serious problem with the heart's electrical signals.
• Use with care if you are about to have major surgery.
• If you play sports, avoid high-risk activities like archery, racing, or shooting while on this medicine, and check anti-doping rules if you compete.
• This medicine is not recommended for children and teenagers under 18, since its safety in that age group hasn't been established.
• This medicine is not recommended for people with asthma or COPD, as it may worsen breathing problems.
• Never stop taking this medicine suddenly, as it can worsen chest pain or trigger a heart attack. Any change should be done gradually and only with your doctor's guidance.
• This medicine can hide the warning signs of low blood sugar in people with diabetes, so blood sugar should be checked regularly.
• This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor before taking it if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
• This medicine is not recommended while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk. Talk to your doctor first.
• Use this medicine with caution if you have kidney problems, and talk to your doctor before starting it.
• Use this medicine with caution if you have liver problems, since it is broken down in the liver and could worsen existing liver issues.
• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can cause a big drop in blood pressure and make you feel dizzier.
• This medicine may cause dizziness and tiredness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.

Storage

• Store below 30°C
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep at room temperature below 30°C
• Protect from moisture and humidity; avoid bathroom medicine cabinets
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Check the expiry date, and do not use it after this date
• Maintain in original packaging until ready for use

When to see a doctor

• Get medical help right away if you notice signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing.
• If you think you or someone else has taken too much of this medicine, contact a doctor immediately or go to the nearest hospital, since overdose can cause a very slow heartbeat, dangerously low blood pressure, fainting, or breathing problems.
• Stop the medicine and contact your doctor right away if you notice a rash, swelling, or trouble breathing, which could mean an allergic reaction.

Alternatives

• Atenolol
• Propranolol
• Amlodipine