Side Effects
Name two common side effects of metoprolol
Tiredness and dizziness
A patient taking metoprolol asks "Can I stop taking it once I feel better?"
No. Abrupt withdrawal can worsen angina or cause a MI. Taper as directed
What specific type of beta adrenergic blocker is metoprolol and which receptors does it primarily block?
Selective Beta 1.
Before administering metoprolol, what is the nurse's priority assessment?
Apical pulse and blood pressure.
Metoprolol primarily blocks what type of adrenergic receptor and where is this type found?
Beta-1 receptors in the heart
New onset wheezing and dyspnea occur after a dose of metoprolol. Name the adverse effect.
Bronchospasm.
An older adult taking metoprolol tells the nurse "I keep getting dizzy and feel like I might fall". What teaching is most important?
Change positions slowly and install fall precautions..
How does metoprolol's drug class affect cardiac output and blood pressure?
Lowers both cardiac output and blood pressure.
Which action is appropriate when administering oral metoprolol?
Give consistently in relation to meals.
By slowing the sinoatrial node, this vital sign decreases.
Heart Rate.
After a dose increase, a patient develops rapid weight gain and shortness of breath. What serious condition could be worsening?
Heart Failure
A patient taking metoprolol also takes insulin states "I know my blood sugar is low when my heart starts racing." Why does this statement require additional teaching?
Metoprolol can enhance the hypoglycemic effect of insulin, but the beta-blockade mechanism can make tachycardia less noticeable. Rely on blood glucose monitoring instead.
What is the Pharmaceutical and Therapeutic class of Metoprolol?
Pharmaceutical: Beta Adrenergic Blocker. Therapeutic: Antihypertensive and antianginal
A patient receiving metoprolol reports dizziness when standing. What should the nurse do?
Help the patient to a seated position, assess blood pressure and tell patient to change positions slowly.
Metoprolol prevents activity induced angina by decreasing heart rate/contractility reducing this specific requirement.
Myocardial oxygen demand