Side Effects of Generic Toprol

Toprol is a prescription medication available for the prevention of heart attacks and the treatment of chest pain and high blood pressure. Toprol is manufactured by AstraZeneca and has been approved by the FDA since 2001. The generic form of Toprol is available under the name Metoprolol. Side effects of Toprol and its generic equivalent include racing heart, difficulty breathing, yellowing of the skin and eyes, dizziness and nausea.

Dosage

• Toprol (Metoprolol) is available in doses of 25 to 100 mg. Your dose of Toprol will depend on how severe your condition is. It is very important that you take Toprol exactly as it was prescribed, and do not skip a dose. If you forget to take your dose of Toprol, take it as soon as you remember. If you are within four hours of taking your next scheduled dose, do not take the missed dose, as this might cause Toprol overdose. Symptoms of Toprol overdose include an unsteady heartbeat or pounding heart, difficulty breathing, dizziness or weakness, and having bluish-colored fingernails (this indicates a lack of oxygen in the blood). Seek immediate medical treatment if you fear you are experiencing Toprol overdose.

Side Effects: Moderate

• Side effects of Toprol and its generic equivalent include impotence, or having a decreased sex drive. Other side effects include anxiety or exhaustion. Nausea and vomiting can also occur as a result of taking Toprol. If you are experiencing these side effects after taking Toprol, talk to your doctor about what changes you can make to help prevent side effects from occurring.

Toprol and Depression

• While Toprol-related depression as a side effect is rare (occurring in approximately 3 percent of those taking the medication), it can be a serious condition. If you have a history of depressive symptoms or have been diagnosed with clinical depression, talk to your doctor about it before taking Toprol. Toprol may cause a worsening of depression symptoms that already exist, or it may cause depression symptoms to appear. Signs of depression include difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, change in appetite, difficulty concentrating or diminished interest in hobbies. If you are experiencing depression as a result of taking Toprol, you need to discuss the matter with your doctor. If you feel like harming yourself or others, seek emergency treatment.

Side Effects: Severe

• More severe side effects of Toprol which require immediate medical care include a feeling of being lightheaded or dizzy, sudden swelling of the ankles, or feeling shortness of breath. Uneven, racing heartbeat or yellowing of the skin and eyes may also occur. Let your doctor know immediately if you have experienced a very dark urine or loss of appetite after taking Toprol or its generic equivalent.

Precaution

• It is important that you continue to take your medication, even if you do not feel sick. High blood pressure often does not have symptoms. Suddenly stopping this medication may result in chest pain or heart attack, which can be fatal. Do not use alcohol while taking Toprol. It is important that you don't take Toprol if you have heart conditions such as slow heart rate or heart block. Talk to your doctor about your medical history prior to taking Toprol.