July's Drug of the Month: Metoprolol
Whether you're prepping for a shift, brushing up on pharmacology, or mentoring a student, knowing your meds is essential. This month, we’re spotlighting Metoprolol, a beta-blocker that every nurse should be familiar with.
🧠 What Is Metoprolol?
Metoprolol is a beta-1 selective adrenergic blocker. It's primarily used to manage:
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Hypertension (high blood pressure)
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Angina pectoris (chest pain)
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Heart failure (select formulations)
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Tachycardia and certain arrhythmias
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Post-MI (myocardial infarction) care
💉 Common Forms & Dosing
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Metoprolol Tartrate (Lopressor) – short-acting; often given BID (twice daily)
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Metoprolol Succinate (Toprol XL) – extended-release; often given once daily
Always verify dosing and formulation – especially when switching between the two.
🧾 Nursing Considerations
🔹 Monitor BP and HR before administration – hold if HR < 60 bpm unless ordered otherwise
🔹 Caution in diabetics – may mask signs of hypoglycemia
🔹 Educate patients to not stop abruptly – may cause rebound hypertension or angina
🔹 Extended-release tabs should not be crushed
🔹 Use with caution in patients with asthma or COPD due to bronchospasm risk (though beta-1 selective)
⚠️ Side Effects to Watch For
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Bradycardia
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Fatigue
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Dizziness
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Depression
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Cold extremities
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Hypotension
👩⚕️ Nurse-to-Nurse Tip:
"Metoprolol is one of the most common meds you'll see. Make sure to check the indication—are we treating blood pressure or heart rate? That often helps guide your assessment and patient education."