Generic Lopressor (metoprolol) is prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension), especially when other medications fail to work. It is also recommended for controlling angina or chronic chest pain. It is important to control high blood pressure in order to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
Metoprolol belongs to the class of drugs called beta-blockers. It acts by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in the body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. The drug lowers the heart rate and blood pressure, removing excess strain on the heart.
Dosage
After assessing your condition and overall health, your doctor may advise Generic Lopressor 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, or 100 mg in divided doses. Typically, Generic Lopressor 50 mg is advised for the treatment of high blood pressure and chest pain in multiple doses daily. In case of early treatment of a heart attack, Generic Lopressor 50 mg is advised every 6 hours for 48 hours.
Instructions
Take generic metoprolol orally, with or right after food, or as directed by your doctor. You might have to take this high blood pressure medication 1 to 3 times a day. To prevent the risk of side effects, doctors may advise the drug in lower potencies and then gradually increase the dose if no side effects are reported. Please follow your prescribing doctor’s instructions carefully.
You must use Generic Lopressor regularly so you can get the most benefit from it. Make sure you take the dosage(s) at the same time(s) each day. Do not stop taking this hypertension medication without consulting your doctor. Abrupt discontinuation of the treatment could lead to complications.
It may take several weeks to notice an improvement in your blood pressure levels so keep taking the medicine as advised. Check with your doctor if your blood pressure remains high even after taking Generic Lopressor as advised for several days.
Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of Generic Lopressor are dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, diarrhea, and slow heartbeat. Clinical trials have found that some people experience decreased sexual ability after using the drug. If these effects worsen or persist, see your doctor right away. To prevent dizziness or drowsiness during treatment, make sure you get up slowly from a sitting or lying position.
Cost
Metoprolol is available in a generic form. Generic Lopressor is an exact copy of metoprolol, which is considered safe and effective as a brand-name drug. Generic Lopressor costs you less than its brand-name counterpart does. The branded version may cost you around $10 per pill, while generic metoprolol may cost you $1 per pill. If your physician has recommended Lopressor and you want to use a generic version of the drug, check with your doctor.
FAQs
What is the difference between Generic Lopressor and Generic Toprol XR?
Generic Lopressor contains metoprolol tartrate and Generic Toprol XR contains metoprolol succinate. metoprolol succinate is the extended-release version while metoprolol tartrate is the immediate-release version of metoprolol, meaning succinate acts longer because it is released over time in the body.
Can I have alcohol while taking Generic Lopressor?
No, you should avoid drinking alcohol during the course of treatment. Both alcohol and the drug can make you more dizzy and drowsy. So, you cannot have alcohol when you are on Generic Lopressor treatment.
Can I take Generic Lopressor on an empty stomach?
Typically, Generic Lopressor is to be taken with or soon after a meal; this will lower the risk of having GI side effects. Also, the drug will be absorbed better when you take it with food.
When should I take Generic Lopressor? Morning or night? Initially, you may feel dizzy or drowsy so it is better to take the dose at night before going to bed. Once you get used to the drug and do not feel dizzy anymore, you can take it in the morning. But remember, dizziness or drowsiness is common with this drug so avoid outdoor risky activities, especially driving.
