CLASS and MECHANISM of Action
Generic "Lopressor" is a beta-adrenergic blocking agent. Generic "Lopressor" blocks the action of the sympathetic nervous system, a portion of the involuntary nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system stimulates the pace of the heart beat. By blocking the action of these nerves, Generic "Lopressor" reduces the heart rate and is useful in treating abnormally rapid heart rhythms. Generic "Lopressor" also reduces the force of heart muscle contraction and lowers blood pressure. By reducing the heart rate and the force of muscle contraction, Generic "Lopressor"l reduces heart muscle oxygen demand.
Active Ingredients: metoprolol tartrate
Other Ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, lactose, cellulose compounds, propylene glycol, sodium starch glycolate, titanium dioxide, magnesium stearate, povidone, polyethylene glycol, talc, D&C red no. 30 aluminum lake (50-mg tablets) and FD&C blue no. 2 aluminum lake (100-mg tablets).
What is Generic "Lopressor" PRESCRIBED For?
Generic "Lopressor" is used in the treatment of high blood pressure, angina pectoris (chest pain, usually caused by lack of oxygen to the heart due to clogged arteries), and heart attack. When prescribed for high blood pressure, it is effective when used alone or in combination with other high blood pressure medications. Occasionally doctors prescribe Generic "Lopressor" for the treatment of aggressive behavior, prevention of migraine headache, and relief of temporary anxiety.
How should I take Generic "Lopressor"?
Take Generic "Lopressor" exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended by your doctor. Take this medication with a full glass of water" at the same time every day.
What are the CONTRAINDICATIONS for taking Generic "Lopressor"?
You should not take Generic "Lopressor" if you have a slow heartbeat, certain heart irregularities, low blood pressure, inadequate output from the heart, or heart failure. Generic "Lopressor" should not be used without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy. Discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this Generic "Lopressor" during pregnancy. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby. For patients with diabetes mellitus Generic "Lopressor" may mask signs of low blood sugar such as a rapid heartbeat. Check blood glucose levels regularly.
What Happens if I MISS A DOSE?
If you miss an Generic "Lopressor" dosage, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double-up the dose to catch up.
What Happens if I OVERDOSE?
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include a slow heart beat, shortness of breath, fainting, dizziness, weakness, confusion, nausea, and vomiting.
What are the possible SIDE EFFECTS of Generic "Lopressor"?
Side effects, that may go away during Generic "Lopressor" treatment, include:
- mild drowsiness
- lightheadedness or dizziness
- unusual tiredness or weakness.
If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Check with your doctor as soon as possible if you experience difficulty breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
What other drugs can INTERACT with Generic "Lopressor"?
If Generic "Lopressor" is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Generic "Lopressor" with certain high blood pressure drugs such as reserpine.
Other medications that might interact with Lopressor include:
- Albuterol (Proventil, Ventolin)
- Amiodarone (Cordarone)
- Barbiturates such as phenobarbital
- Calcium channel blockers such as Calan and Cardizem
- Cimetidine (Tagamet)
- Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)
- Clonidine (Catapres)
- Epinephrine (EpiPen)
- Fluoxetine (Prozac)
- Hydralazine (Apresoline)
- Insulin
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and Indocin
- Oral diabetes drugs such as Glucotrol and Micronase
- Paroxetine (Paxil)
- Prazosin (Minipress)
- Propafenone (Rythmol)
- Quinidine (Quinaglute)
- Ranitidine (Zantac)
- Rifampin (Rifadin)
Additional Information
Do not share this Generic "Lopressor" with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
Your pharmacist has additional information about Generic "Lopressor" written for health professionals that you may read.
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