What it means
A cardioselective beta blockerBAY-tuh BLOK-erA drug that blocks the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.Full entry , acting mainly on the heart's beta-1 receptors. It is used for high blood pressure, angina, heart failure (the extended-release form), after a heart attack and to slow the rate in atrial fibrillation. Side effects include a slow heart rate, low blood pressure, tiredness and dizziness, and it can hide the fast heartbeat that warns of low blood sugar. Its boxed warning is against stopping it suddenly, which can worsen chest pain or bring on a heart attack. IV metoprolol is on ISMP's high-alert list (IV adrenergic antagonists); the tablets are not. Its brand name Lopressor can be confused with Lyrica (pregabalinpree-GAB-uh-linA drug used for nerve pain, fibromyalgia and, with other drugs, for some seizures.Full entry ).
For the nurse
Check the apical pulse and blood pressure before each dose and hold it as the order's limits say (often a pulse below 60 or a low systolic pressure), then tell the provider. Extended-release tablets are not crushed or chewed. Teach the client not to stop it suddenly and to rise slowly.
At a glance
| Drug class | beta blocker (beta-1 selective) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Lopressor, Toprol-XL, Kapspargo Sprinkle |
| Spanish | metoprolol |
| Also written | Lopressor, Toprol-XL, Toprol XL, Kapspargo Sprinkle |
Easy to confuse with
pregabalin
A drug used for nerve pain, fibromyalgia and, with other drugs, for some seizures.
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
heart failure
A long-term condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.
atrial fibrillation
An irregular heart rhythm in which the upper chambers of the heart quiver instead of beating in an organized way.
beta blocker
A drug that blocks the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.
angina
Chest pain or pressure that happens when the heart muscle does not get enough blood and oxygen.
apical pulse
The heartbeat counted by listening with a stethoscope over the tip (apex) of the heart, on the left side of the chest.