Bystolic vs Metoprolol
Drug Class
Beta-1 selective blockerPrimary Indications
- Hypertension - Angina (chest pain) - Heart failure - Post-heart attack preventionMechanism of Action
Selectively blocks beta-1 receptors, reducing heart rate and blood pressure.Dosage Forms
Oral tablets, extended-release tablets, IV injectionCommon Dosages
- Hypertension: 25–100 mg twice daily (IR), 25–200 mg once daily (ER) - Heart failure: 12.5–200 mg daily (ER)Onset of Action
1 hour (IR), 4–6 hours (ER)Duration of Action
IR: 6–12 hours ER: 24 hoursHalf-Life
IR: 3–7 hours ER: 7–9 hoursCommon Side Effects
- Fatigue - Dizziness - Slow heart rate - Cold hands/feetSerious Side Effects
- Bradycardia - Low blood pressure - Shortness of breath - DepressionPregnancy Category
Category C (Use with caution)Controlled Substance
NoAddiction Potential
NoneDrug Interactions
- Other beta-blockers - Calcium channel blockers - Digoxin (bradycardia risk)Monitoring Parameters
- Blood pressure - Heart rate - Symptoms of heart failureWithdrawal Symptoms
- Rebound hypertension - Chest pain - Increased heart rateCost and Availability
Affordable (generic available)Special Considerations
- Available in immediate and extended-release forms. - More widely studied for heart failure.Coupon code
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What is the main difference between Bystolic and Metoprolol?
Bystolic (Nebivolol) is a beta-blocker that also helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow. Metoprolol primarily reduces heart rate and blood pressure but does not have the same vasodilation effect.
Which medication is better for high blood pressure?
Both medications are effective for high blood pressure. Bystolic may be preferred for patients needing additional blood vessel relaxation, while Metoprolol is often chosen for patients with heart disease or previous heart attacks.
Can Bystolic or Metoprolol be used for heart failure?
Yes, but Metoprolol succinate (Toprol XL) is FDA-approved for heart failure, while Bystolic is sometimes used off-label but lacks as much clinical evidence for this condition.
Does Bystolic have fewer side effects than Metoprolol?
Bystolic may cause fewer side effects like fatigue and dizziness compared to Metoprolol, but both can cause low heart rate, dizziness, and tiredness.
