Common Use

Lopressor primarily works by blocking beta-adrenoreceptors in the heart. It is commonly prescribed to treat hypertension, chest pain (angina), irregular heart rhythms, and to manage or prevent myocardial infarction. This medication affects the autonomic nervous system, which regulates heart rate, by blocking its receptors and reducing abnormally rapid heart rhythms. It also decreases myocardial irritability, reduces cardiac output, and produces other therapeutic effects.

Dosage and Direction

Take Lopressor with food or immediately after a meal. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water. The dosage typically ranges between 100-450 mg daily, depending on the condition being treated. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage for you. Elderly patients are often advised to start with a 50 mg daily dose. Dosage adjustment is not necessary for kidney failure, but liver failure requires the use of alternative beta-blockers that are not metabolized by the liver.

Precautions

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Lopressor, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.

Contraindications

Lopressor should not be used by individuals with hypersensitivity to its components, acute or chronic heart failure, arterial hypotension, congestive heart failure, asthma or other respiratory issues, diabetes, peripheral blood circulation disorders, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also contraindicated in patients with depression, liver or kidney disease, thyroid disorders, or myasthenia gravis.

Possible Side Effects

While Lopressor is generally well-tolerated, some side effects may occur, including abdominal cramps, fatigue, insomnia, nausea, depression, memory loss, fever, impotence, lightheadedness, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, cold extremities, sore throat, diarrhea, constipation, and shortness of breath or wheezing.

Drug Interaction

Use caution when taking Lopressor with calcium channel blockers and digoxin (Lanoxin), as these combinations can dangerously lower blood pressure and heart rate. Additionally, Lopressor may mask early symptoms of low blood sugar, so diabetic patients should use it with caution.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is less than 4 hours away, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.

Overdose

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as uneven heartbeats, shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness, fainting, or bluish-colored fingernails, as these may indicate an overdose.

Storage

Store Lopressor at a temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep the medication in a tight, light-resistant container away from moisture and sunlight.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Lopressor and does not cover all possible uses, drug interactions, or precautions. It is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. We disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy of this information and any consequences resulting from its use.