Metoprolol is a cost-effective medication prescribed for treating hypertension and a few cardiac ailments. The drug controls heartbeats and helps maintain a normal pulse rate. Metoprolol reduces stress and palpitation. Can you use metoprolol for anxiety? It is of use to know about this.
High blood pressure is one of the common conditions. It is labelled a silent killer as its onset usually goes unnoticed. A healthy level of systolic / diastolic pressure (120/80 mm Hg) is key to cardiac wellbeing. Drugs of a genre called beta blockers are used to treat hypertension and chest pain called angina.
In this light, what is metoprolol?
This is a widely used beta blocker. It slows down the rate of your heartbeats and prevents incidence of cardiac problems. Key ingredients ease pumping action and facilitates better flow of blood all through your body.
Metoprolol is used regularly and is used as per your physician’s advice. Metoprolol is mostly prescribed as a night dose as it causes dizziness and tiredness. You need to take rest for at least 2 hours after each dose. This helps overcome drowsiness and deep sleep.
Doctors usually recommend the first dose before bedtime to avoid adverse effects. You may also need to avoid physical activities soon after taking Metoprolol.
It is safe to stay idle for a couple of hours till drowsiness eases. Those who take alcohol regularly are advised to either stop / reduce their intake level. Combination of alcohol with Metoprolol is likely to worsen drowsiness and may even make you sedated.
How much Metoprolol is good?
It is essential to know that a dose of 25 mg is often considered as a starting dose. But dosing can go up to 100 mg to treat severe spells of anxiety and stress-related disorders. Your physician may advice a twice-a-day dosage plan.
As an extended use, Metoprolol helps combat stress-related disorders – which if untreated – can lead to anxiety. Caveat: Metoprolol is never advised as a daily med. Instead, it is prescribed whenever anxiety or stresses crop up.
Is Metoprolol the most sought-after drug for anxiety?
Anxiety is a common medical condition affecting many the world over. There are indeed several medications available to treat anxiety.
In this light, Metoprolol is known to lower your blood pressure and thus manage stress levels. This eventually helps control anxiety. Apart from controlling anxiety, Metoprolol is also used to treat a few other health conditions. People suffering from hypertension, thyroid disorders, liver diseases, arrhythmia, etc., are administered with Metoprolol.
There are two different types of Metoprolol. These are Metoprolol succinate and Metoprolol tartrate. Metoprolol succinate lasts for a period of 24 hours. It has an extended-release version whereas Metoprolol tartrate is made as an immediate release med, and this drug lasts for nearly half day.
Side effects of metoprolol
Patients with mental disorders / those with chronic heart problems are advised to stay away from taking Metoprolol. Metoprolol alters your blood sugar levels; this might trigger a low blood-sugar level, resulting in hypoglycemia.
Also, Metoprolol may trigger a few allergic reactions. These include swelling of skin, formation of rashes, etc. You might also experience an unusual tiredness and shortness of breath. If you sense respiratory conditions, it may lead to a heart condition – as a worst-case scenario. Hence, seek medical help if you are panting for breath.
A few related risks of adverse effects include hypotension i.e., low blood pressure, slowdown of heartbeats, turning depressed coupled with spells of migraine.
Metoprolol for anxiety how long to work? Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, can help reduce physical symptoms of anxiety, like rapid heart rate and shaking. It typically starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour, but its full effects may take a few days to notice. It’s not a first-line treatment for anxiety, but can be useful for situational anxiety or panic attacks. Always consult a doctor for guidance.
How long can Metoprolol be taken for anxiety?
Metoprolol is taken based on your prescribed dosage plan. Metoprolol is well-tolerated and is safe to use for longer duration. It can be consumed for several months, depending on your condition. Beware of stopping Metoprolol all of a sudden! The last few doses are tapered and dosage strength is reduced in a gradual fashion. A sudden stop of Metoprolol doses may invite danger and worsen your condition.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from Tufts University. Experience: 6 years of experience as a registered dietitian and freelance writer, creating content on nutritional science and weight management for various health websites.