Metoprolol is a beta blocker type of drug. It is the prototype of cardio selective blockers. It blocks cardiac stimulation similar to propranolol but is less likely to worsen asthma. But Metoprolol is not entirely safe. It may also be preferred to propranolol in diabetics receiving insulin or oral hypoglycaemics.It is used for the treatment of Hypertension, angina pectoris and acute myocardial infarction.

It is available under the brand names Lopressor  -metoprolol tartrate  and Toprol XL – metoprolol Succinate from Mylan . Other brand or generic formulations of this medication may also be available.

Adults are administered  100-200 mg in two divided doses for Children:  1-5 mg/kg/day in two divided doses. Metoprolol is contra indicated in Bradycardia, cardiogenic shock, 2nd or 3rd degree A.V. block, cardiac failure. Verapamil therapy and Asthma/COPD. Special Precautions should be taken during General anaesthesia, pregnancy and reduced cardiac reserve. In Pregnanant women Metoprolol May effect the foetus and during  Lactation: it may pass in breast milk. Hence use only if clearly indicated.

 
  Side-effects of Metoprolol inlcude headache, nightmares, hypotension, eye and skin reactions. The Drugs that interact are: Cimetidine which potentiate metoprolol and it has negative ionotropic effect with general anesthetics. Bioavailability is increased by food and there is enhancement of antihypertensive effect with    diuretics and vasodilators. Metoprolol is very useful in combination with digitalis.

Metoprolol is available under the brand names Lopressor and Toprol XL. Other brand or generic formulations of this medication may also be available.

Common brands  are

Lopressor 50 mg–pink, capsule-shaped, scored tablets
Lopressor 100 mg–light-blue, capsule-shaped, scored tablets
Toprol XL 50 mg extended-release tablets–white, round, film-coated, scored tablets
Toprol XL 100 mg extended-release tablets–white, round, film-coated, scored tablets