Nebivolol vs Metoprolol

NebivololMetoprolol
Beta-1 selective blocker with nitric oxide effects

Drug Class

Beta-1 selective blocker
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) - Off-label: Heart failure

Primary Indications

- Hypertension - Angina (chest pain) - Heart failure - Post-heart attack prevention
Selectively blocks beta-1 receptors while enhancing nitric oxide release, leading to vasodilation and improved blood flow.

Mechanism of Action

Selectively blocks beta-1 receptors, reducing heart rate and blood pressure but lacks vasodilation effects.
Oral tablets

Dosage Forms

Oral tablets, extended-release tablets, IV injection
- Hypertension: 5–40 mg once daily

Common Dosages

- Hypertension: 25–100 mg twice daily (IR), 25–200 mg once daily (ER) - Heart failure: 12.5–200 mg daily (ER)
1–2 hours

Onset of Action

1 hour (IR), 4–6 hours (ER)
~24 hours (once daily dosing)

Duration of Action

IR: 6–12 hours ER: 24 hours
~12 hours

Half-Life

IR: 3–7 hours ER: 7–9 hours
- Fatigue - Dizziness - Headache - Nausea

Common Side Effects

- Fatigue - Dizziness - Slow heart rate - Cold hands/feet
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate) - Low blood pressure - Worsening heart failure

Serious Side Effects

- Bradycardia - Low blood pressure - Shortness of breath - Depression
Category C (Use with caution)

Pregnancy Category

Category C (Use with caution)
No

Controlled Substance

No
None

Addiction Potential

None
- Other beta-blockers - Blood pressure medications - Digoxin (bradycardia risk)

Drug Interactions

- Other beta-blockers - Calcium channel blockers - Digoxin (bradycardia risk)
- Blood pressure - Heart rate - Symptoms of heart failure

Monitoring Parameters

- Blood pressure - Heart rate - Symptoms of heart failure
- Rebound hypertension - Rapid heart rate

Withdrawal Symptoms

- Rebound hypertension - Chest pain - Increased heart rate
Expensive (brand-name only)

Cost and Availability

Affordable (generic available)
- Has vasodilatory effects, which may be better for patients with poor circulation. - Less effect on heart rate than Metoprolol.

Special Considerations

- Available in immediate and extended-release forms. - More widely studied for heart failure and post-heart attack care.

Coupon code

CMP30

Coupon code

Coupon code

CMP30

FAQ

What is the main difference between Nebivolol and Metoprolol?

Nebivolol is a beta-1 selective blocker with vasodilation effects, improving blood flow. Metoprolol is a traditional beta-blocker that reduces heart rate and blood pressure but lacks vasodilation properties.

Which medication is better for high blood pressure?

Both lower blood pressure effectively, but Nebivolol’s vasodilation effect may benefit patients with circulatory issues. Metoprolol is more commonly prescribed for heart conditions.

Is Nebivolol or Metoprolol better for heart failure?

Metoprolol succinate (Toprol XL) is FDA-approved for heart failure and widely used. Nebivolol is sometimes used off-label but lacks the same extensive research.

Which medication has fewer side effects?

Nebivolol may cause less fatigue and dizziness due to its vasodilation effects, while Metoprolol can cause cold hands, slower heart rate, and fatigue more often.