LOPRESSOR (METOPROLOL TARTRATE)

Who Should Take Lopressor?

Lopressor or generic Metoprolol Tartrate is a beta-blocker that is prescribed to treat hypertension and angina, which will help to prevent the occurrence of a second heart attack. Having high blood pressure is usually only diagnosed during a regular physical exam because there are no symptoms to warn you that you are at risk for a heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. The symptoms of angina mimic a heart attack and is a warning that your heart is starving for oxygen. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Help Your Heart with Lopressor

Lopressor works by changing the way your body responds to epinephrine, a hormone produced in your body by the adrenal glands that is released at times of high emotion or stress. This causes an increase in heart rate, muscle strength, blood pressure, and sugar metabolism. By suppressing the function of epinephrine, Lopressor or generic Metoprolol Tartrate decreases the number of heartbeats and the force of each beat. This helps to stop the pain of angina, lower your blood pressure, and avoid a possible heart attack or stroke.

Treat Angina and Hypertension with Lopressor

Angina is the uncomfortable chest pain you experience when your heart is not receiving a sufficient amount of oxygen and blood. Narrowed arteries that are blocked by a build-up of plaque is called coronary atherosclerosis and is the reason for angina. Many people mistake angina symptoms for a heart attack in progress, but the pain only lasts a few minutes. It is not to be ignored though, so you must see a doctor before the next angina attack is not just a warning.

Hypertension results when the force of blood against your artery walls is too powerful and can cause damage to your arteries, heart, and your kidneys. Causes of high blood pressure include obesity, high sodium intake, and an improper diet. A lifestyle change can help lower your pressure as Lopressor is an effective treatment, but not a cure.

Before You Take Lopressor

Ask your doctor if Lopressor is safe to take while you are pregnant, if you become pregnant, or if you are breast feeding. To determine if Lopressor is the right drug for you, tell your doctor about other medical conditions and allergies you have and list any OTC or Rx drugs you take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements.

Important to Know When Taking Lopressor

Until you know how your body will react to Lopressor, do not attempt to drive, operate machinery, or perform any tasks that may be considered unsafe. If you are diabetic, you should monitor your blood sugar regularly as Lopressor can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), such as fast heartbeat, hunger, chills, clamminess, or dizziness. Store all medications out of children’s reach and never share them with anyone.

Possible Side Effects of Lopressor

• Dizziness or fainting
• Slow or irregular heartbeat
• Cough
• Blurred vision