As people age, the body can process medications differently. Changes in kidney function, liver function, body composition, hydration, and the use of multiple prescription medications can all affect how a medicine works.
This is particularly important for older adults who take several medications for high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic conditions.
A medication review can sometimes identify combinations that are contributing to dizziness, fatigue, low blood pressure, or other unwanted effects.
Do Not Stop Metoprolol Suddenly
One of the most important things to remember is that metoprolol should not generally be stopped suddenly without medical guidance.
Abruptly discontinuing a beta blocker can cause a significant increase in heart rate and blood pressure and may worsen certain heart conditions.
If you believe metoprolol is causing side effects, contact your prescribing doctor or pharmacist. They can determine whether the dose should be adjusted, the medication changed, or another cause investigated.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Certain symptoms require immediate medical evaluation rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
Seek urgent medical attention for severe difficulty breathing, fainting, severe chest pain, a new severe or irregular heartbeat accompanied by weakness or dizziness, or signs of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Sudden confusion, severe weakness, or loss of consciousness also warrants urgent assessment.
The Bottom Line
Metoprolol can be an effective medication for managing high blood pressure, heart rate, and several cardiovascular conditions. For many seniors, the benefits can be significant when the medication is appropriately prescribed and monitored.
At the same time, unusual fatigue, dizziness, slow heart rate, cold extremities, swelling, sleep changes, mood changes, or breathing problems should not automatically be dismissed as normal aging.
If symptoms appear after starting metoprolol or become worse following a dosage change, keep track of what you are experiencing and speak with your doctor or pharmacist. A medication review, blood pressure measurement, heart-rate check, and appropriate medical testing can help determine whether metoprolol is contributing to the problem or whether another condition needs attention.
See more on the next page