Metoprolol is a beta-blocker which is often used in the treatment of heart problems and high blood pressure. It is one of the most commonly used medications of this type used for these purposes today.
In addition to being used to treat these conditions, metoprolol is also often used as a preventative medication when the presence of certain conditions or symptoms indicate its use. For example, metoprolol can be used to lessen the likelihood of experiencing migraine headaches in a patient who has a history of migraines, or as a preventative measure against the possibility of having a heart attack when the patient’s medical history and current situation deem it likely that he could have one. In other words, metoprolol can be prescribed for the treatment of conditions and symptoms, and it can be prescribed for the purpose of warding off potential problems as well.
Another reason why metoprolol is such a widely-popular choice in medication is that most patients who experience side-effects from this drug only have side-effects which are quite mild and tolerable. While side-effects such as dizziness, diarrhea, and mild intereference with blood circulation are certainly not pleasant, they are preferable over the more serious side-effects which are much more common from the use of other types of medications. An additional factor of metoprolol is that for most people who experience these minor side-effects, they are usually very temporary in nature; few patients will have to deal with these annoyances throughout the duration.
As with any medication, however, the possibility of serious side-effects does exist. Your risk of such complications as a slowing of your heartbeat or difficulties in breathing, amongst others, can be significantly lessened as long as your physician knows that your health history and medical status make you a good candidate for this medication, and as long as you use it in the exact manner that he directs for you.
Some patients may experience allergic reactions to metoprolol. While this possibility is to be expected from beginning the use of any new medication, studies have shown that metoprolol does not pose a significant risk for most people. If you do begin to experience an allergic reaction, such as a rash or itching, you should inform your doctor about this immediately so that he can take the necessary precautions. Even though an allergic reaction may feel like little more than an annoyance to you, the fact that it is telling you that your body does not agree with the medication means you should take any allergic reaction seriously!
While there are positives and negatives connected to all medications, the health benefits of metoprolol far outweigh the minor risks. If it is used for its intended purpose, taken exactly as your physician directs you, and you also eliminate smoking so that you do not increase your risk of circulatory difficulties, metoprolol is one of the most effective and one of the safest medications currently available for treatment of these symptoms and conditions.