Clicky

What is Metoprolol tartrate?

doctor
If you're one of the more than 100 million American adults struggling to manage your high blood pressure, your doctor may have spoken to you about taking a medication called metoprolol tartrate in conjunction with making healthy lifestyle changes. While taking a prescription medication gives some people pause, high blood pressure is a "silent killer" that is the most common cause of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in the United States. High blood pressure-related deaths rose 38 percent between 2005 and 2015, and the crisis continues. If you're considering taking metoprolol tartrate in conjunction with living a healthy lifestyle to manage your high blood pressure, here's what you need to know.

Share This Post

If you’re one of the more than 100 million American adults struggling to manage your high blood pressure, your doctor may have spoken to you about taking a medication called metoprolol tartrate in conjunction with making healthy lifestyle changes.

While taking a prescription medication gives some people pause, high blood pressure is a “silent killer” that is the most common cause of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in the United States.

High blood pressure-related deaths rose 38 percent between 2005 and 2015, and the crisis continues.

If you’re considering taking metoprolol tartrate in conjunction with living a healthy lifestyle to manage your high blood pressure, here’s what you need to know.

What is metoprolol tartrate?

Metoprolol tartrate, sometimes known under the brand name Lopressor, similar to Clonidine and Propranolol, belongs to a class of medication called beta-blockers.

Beta-blockers slow down your heart rate and lower your blood flow pressure by blocking the effects of the hormone epinephrine.

Metoprolol, which is the beta-blocker component of the medication, is combined with tartrate, a type of salt, to form metoprolol tartrate.

Metoprolol can also be combined with a different type of salt called succinate to create the drug metoprolol succinate; the two medications treat different conditions and are not interchangeable.  

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is a condition in which your blood consistently pushes against the walls of your blood vessels too forcefully for an extended period of time.

This condition is dangerous because it increases the workload of the heart and blood vessels, causing them to work less efficiently and have to work harder to provide the tissues and organs with the blood they need to function.

Over time, high blood pressure can cause a narrowing of the blood vessels by creating microtears in the walls of the arteries. This narrowing further prevents blood from reaching the different areas of the body and further elevates your blood pressure.

High blood pressure can be caused by any number of factors, including living an unhealthy lifestyle, medications, health conditions, and genetics. About 95 percent of high blood pressure cases have no specific cause and are influenced primarily by lifestyle choices.

How does metoprolol tartrate treat high blood pressure?

Beta-blockers like metoprolol tartrate treat high blood pressure by preventing norepinephrine (adrenaline) from affecting beta-1 receptors in the heart tissue – hence the term “beta-blockers.”

When this happens, the heart pumps more slowly and less forcefully, lowering blood pressure in the blood vessels.

Because metoprolol tartrate works only on beta-1 receptors on normal doses, it does not have the same effects on breathing that other beta-blockers can have; however, at high doses, beta-2 receptors are also blocked in the lungs and airways, which can slow breathing.

What is the cost of metoprolol tartrate?

Regardless of whether it is purchased in its generic form or as the brand name, Lopressor, metoprolol tartrate is an affordable beta blocker.

You may have fewer strength options available when purchasing Lopressor than when purchasing the generic form of metoprolol tartrate, as Lopressor and Propafenone is produced by one manufacturer while metoprolol tartrate is produced by many.

Lopressor is covered by approximately 73 percent of insurance plans. Manufacturers coupons and patient assistance programs may be available for the brand name version of the drug information through the manufacturer’s website. 
 

Approximate Costs of Lopressor and Metoprolol Tartrate

 

Lopressor

Metoprolol tartrate

 

Per Pill

30 Day Supply

Per Pill

30 Day Supply

25 mg oral tablet

$0.43

$12.90

37.5 mg oral tablet

$1.12

$33.60

50 mg oral tablet

$2.73

$81.90

$0.50

$15.06

75 mg oral tablet

$1.80

$54.00

100 mg oral tablet

$4.03

$120.90

$0.56

$16.72

What are the benefits of metoprolol tartrate?

One of the biggest benefits of using metoprolol tartrate is that the drug can literally save your life; it has been shown to reduce the risk of death or another heart attack when administered immediately following a heart attack.

Unlike other beta-blockers, metoprolol tartrate is selective at typical doses, meaning that it is less likely to impact breathing and insulin response than beta-blockers that are not selective.

The drug is inexpensive in its generic form and the brand name medication is also covered by most insurance plans, so the medication is accessible to the majority of patients who need it. Metoprolol tartrate works quickly, taking effect within an hour.

It has some useful off-label applications, too: metoprolol tartrate may be used to prevent migraines and treat certain arrhythmias under a doctor’s supervision. 

What dose of metoprolol tartrate do I take?

Metoprolol tartrate is available in its generic form in 25 mg, 37.5 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg strengths.

Due to the risk of possible side effects, your doctor will likely recommend starting on a low dose and gradually increasing your dose as needed.

The recommended maintenance dosage of metoprolol tartrate ranges from 100 to 450 milligrams daily, as it is taken every 6 to 8 hours.

If you need to stop taking metoprolol tartrate, you should do so only under a doctor’s supervision and on a gradual basis, tapering down over the course of one to two weeks. 

Are there any side effects I should be aware of?

There are numerous side effects associated with taking metoprolol tartrate at room temperature, the majority of which are similar to the side effects associated with other beta blockers.

Common side effects associated with metoprolol tartrate include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, faintness
  • Slow or irregular heartbeat
  • Sweating
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Dry mouth

Less common side effects associated with metoprolol tartrate include:

  • Cough
  • Decreased urine output
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Dilated neck veins
  • Double vision
  • Headache
  • Night blindness
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Short term memory loss
  • Tingling of the hands or feet

Rare, but possible side effects and adverse effects of metoprolol tartrate include:

  • Bluish color of skin
  • Chills
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fever
  • Hoarseness
  • Itching skin
  • Rash 
  • Muscle pain or stiffness
  • Sore throat
  • Vomiting of blood
  • Shortness of breath

Is metoprolol tartrate safe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding?

Metoprolol tartrate is classified as a category C drug interactions by the FDA for use in pregnant women, meaning it should only be used if clearly needed.

No controlled data regarding birth defects in humans is currently available; however, studies in animals have revealed impacts to unborn fetuses.

Metoprolol tartrate does pass through breast milk and can be transmitted to infants.

Women who are breastfeeding should use caution and speak to their doctors for medical advice before using metoprolol tartrate.

Who should not take metoprolol tartrate?

If you are allergic to metoprolol tartrate or other beta-blockers, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

It’s important to make your doctor aware of your complete medical history, particularly if you have a history of any of the following:

  • Heart rhythm problems (slow heartbeat, sick sinus syndrome, second or third-degree atrioventricular block)
  • Breathing problems (asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema)
  • Liver disease
  • Heart failure
  • Serious allergic reactions of any kind, particularly those needing treatment with epinephrine
  • Blood circulation problems (Raynaud’s disease, peripheral vascular disease)
  • Mental/mood disorders
  • Myasthenia gravis

People with diabetes may notice that metoprolol tartrate masks the accelerated heartbeat they experience during a hypoglycemic episode.

Metoprolol tartrate will not impact dizziness and sweating associated with low blood sugar, but it may make it more difficult to control your blood sugar.

Diabetics should check their blood sugar regularly while taking metoprolol and should tell their doctor about high blood sugar symptoms right away.

Taking immediate-release metoprolol tartrate can make you dizzy or drowsy. The use of alcohol or marijuana can increase these feelings.

You should not drive or do anything that requires alertness until you know how metoprolol affects you.

How do I know if metoprolol tartrate is right for me?

Metoprolol tartrate is an inexpensive and effective drug, but it’s not right for everyone. Just like any medication such as Fluoxetine, Paroxetine, and Quinidine, one medication isn’t the answer for all.

The medication, just like toprol xl, is an excellent choice for people who have high blood pressure, angina, or have experienced a heart attack.

It must be taken with or immediately following meals in order to be absorbed properly, which may not be ideal for some people’s schedules.

Because metroprolol tartrate works for only six to eight hours, it must be taken several times a day, which some people may find inconvenient.

It cannot be substituted with other beta blocker salt types. While taking metoprolol tartrate, you’ll need to be regularly monitored by your doctor.

The medication should not be discontinued suddenly; it is recommended to gradually reduce your dose over a period of time.

References, Studies and Sources:

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-11207/metoprolol-tartrate-oral/details

https://www.drugs.com/mtm/metoprolol-tartrate.html

medically reviewed and fact checked

We are committed to providing our readers with only trusted resources and science-based studies with regards to medication and health information. 

Disclaimer: This general information is not intended to diagnose any medical condition or to replace your healthcare professional. If you suspect medical problems or need medical help or advice, please talk with your healthcare professional.

Share This Post

Pharmacists.org Discount Club

Get Started for $1.

  • Cheapest cash pay option at your retail pharmacy
  • 1,000s of drugs below $10.00 that can beat your co-pay
  • Start for $1 for your first month. Cancel anytime. 
  • Tell us your meds, we tell you the cheapest options.

Popular Destinations

Recent Articles

doctor checking phone for prescription

Amlodipine side effects: What are they?

Over 108 million people, or 45 percent of American adults, are currently dealing with hypertension, or high blood pressure, whether they know it or not. Because high blood pressure doesn’t always cause symptoms and just so happens to be the most common cause of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in the United States, it’s known as the “silent killer” – many people have no idea they are affected until it’s too late. Lifestyle factors like poor diet, high-stress levels, not getting enough exercise, and not getting enough sleep all play a role in causing high blood pressure, but the condition can also be caused by other factors, such as medical conditions and certain medications. Lifestyle changes won’t control high blood pressure for everyone, and although they’re an important first step, sometimes treatment with medication is necessary.  One medication commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure is amlodipine.

Read More »
doctor

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

If you’re one of the one in two Americans struggling to keep their blood pressure at a manageable level, you may be looking for more ways to manage your condition. High blood pressure is sometimes called the “silent killer” because it produces few symptoms but is a major contributor to many of the leading causes of death, including heart disease and stroke. Before we can talk about how to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure, it’s important to understand what causes high blood pressure, what types of problems it can cause in our bodies, and what our blood pressure goals should be.

Read More »
image of pills

What Is Losartan Potassium?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimatesthat about 45 percent of American adults, or 108 million people, currently suffer from high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. High blood pressure is influenced by a number of factors, including diet, activity level, stress, medications, and medical conditions, and doctors generally advise hypertensive patients to make serious lifestyle changes, like eating right and exercising more. Lifestyle changes will be effective in reducing or eliminating high blood pressure for many people, but others might need additional treatment in the form of blood pressure medication to bring their condition under control. Regardless of how patients get their high blood pressure under control, doing so is critical; high blood pressure is known as the “silent killer” because it is the most common cause of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in the United States, and many people are unaware that they have high blood pressure until it is too late. If your doctor has recommended taking losartan potassium in conjunction with making lifestyle changes to control your high blood pressure, here’s what you need to know about the medication.

Read More »

What is Normal Blood Pressure?

According to the American Heart Association, nearly one in two American adults, or about 103 million people, suffer from high blood pressure. This “silent killer” has been implicated in a number of serious conditions, including heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure comes with a lot of risk factors and is the most common cause of cardiovascular disease-related deaths in the United States such as heart attacks, and a 38 percent increase in high blood pressure-related deaths occurred between 2005 and 2015. Maybe you want to get your high blood pressure back to normal, but you’re not even sure what normal blood pressure even is, much less how to get there. Measuring blood pressure can be a bit confusing at first before you understand where the readings come from.

Read More »

Share On:

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Get updates and learn from the best

More To Explore

What Is Lisinopril Used For?

Lisinopril is a first-line treatment drug recommended for hypertension, but it also has other less well-known uses.

Amlodipine side effects: What are they?

Over 108 million people, or 45 percent of American adults, are currently dealing with hypertension, or high blood pressure, whether they know it or

What Causes High Blood Pressure?

If you’re one of the one in two Americans struggling to keep their blood pressure at a manageable level, you may be looking for

What Is Losartan Potassium?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimatesthat about 45 percent of American adults, or 108 million people, currently suffer from high blood pressure, also

What is Normal Blood Pressure?

According to the American Heart Association, nearly one in two American adults, or about 103 million people, suffer from high blood pressure. This “silent

What Is Amlodipine?

Nearly half of American adults (108 million people, or 45 percent of the adult population) is currently struggling with hypertension, or high blood pressure.

Losartan Potassium Side Effects: What Are They?

If you’re one of the 108 million American adults (about 45 percent of the adult population) currently suffering from high blood pressure, you’re definitely

Can a Garlic Supplement Prevent Heart Disease?

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in America due to many different risk factors. The use of garlic supplementation may help reduce

Lisinopril Side Effects: What Are They?

One hundred million American adults are struggling to manage their high blood pressure, and if you’re one of them, you’ve likely been told by

Does Aspirin Lower Blood Pressure?

Aspirin, a common medication that is known to reduce the risk of heart attack, has been studied to see whether or not it might

When To Take Lisinopril

Need to know when to take lisinopril? Learn why it’s important to take it at the right time of day.

Does Timing Matter for Blood Pressure Medications?

Uncontrolled blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major burden in the United States that contributes to high heart disease rates, heart attacks, and stroke.

Can Potassium Help Manage High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects about half of all adults living in the United States. Preventing and controlling blood pressure through healthy habits

What are Foods to Avoid with High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure is heavily influenced by a number of lifestyle factors, which means there are lots of different ways to manage your condition.

What is Lisinopril?

Today, one of the first-line treatments for high blood pressure is lisinopril. Exactly what is lisinopril and what is it used for?

Losartan Potassium Side Effects: What Are They?

Losartan potassium is a commonly prescribed high blood pressure medication that can help lower high blood pressure in hypertensive patients when used in conjunction

How to lower your blood pressure?

Picture yourself and two coworkers. You’re all pretty healthy, right? Appearances can be deceiving. The American Heart Association estimates that about 103 million people,

How Does Lisinopril work?

Drugs within all of these classes are commonly prescribed for cardiovascular problems and some of these names might be familiar to you. Each of

What is Low Blood Pressure?

We often hear about the dangers of high blood pressure, but is it possible for your blood pressure to be too low? With high

What does Amlodipine do?

About 45 percent of the American adult population, or 108 million people, struggle with hypertension, or high blood pressure. This “silent killer” is so