Registered Kenya · PPB

BETALOC ZOK 200 MG TABLETS

METOPROLOL SUCCINATE

What it does

Metoprolol is a type of medicine known as a beta blocker, which helps lower blood pressure and manage heart conditions.

Commonly used for: high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain), heart failure, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)

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Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.

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Registration & product details

Registration no.
12436
Registration date
-
Expiry date
-
Status
Registered
Active ingredient
METOPROLOL SUCCINATE
Strength
-
Pack size
-
Therapeutic class
-
ATC class (WHO)
C07FB - Beta blocking agents and calcium channel blockers
RxNorm RxCUI
6918
Manufacturer / MAH
Astrazeneca
Applicant / LTR
-
Country of origin
FOREIGN
Manufacturer location
10th & 11th Floor Neville Tower 2nd Floor Hardy Towers, Ramanujan IT City, Tharamani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600113, India

Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:15:51 · updated 2026-07-20 08:59:02

Drug Interactions

15
Check interactions

Pharmacodynamic Warnings

Metoprolol appears in TABLE 6: Drugs that cause bradycardia

Metoprolol appears in TABLE 8: Drugs that cause hypotension

Severe (1)

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Dacomitinib is predicted to markedly increase the exposure to beta blockers, selective (metoprolol, nebivolol). Avoid.

Severe Study

Moderate (3)

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Eliglustat is predicted to increase the exposure to metoprolol. Adjust dose.

Moderate Study

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Fedratinib moderately increases the exposure to metoprolol. Monitor and adjust dose.

Moderate Study

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Panobinostat is predicted to increase the exposure to metoprolol. Monitor and adjust dose.

Moderate Theoretical

Unknown (11)

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Abiraterone is predicted to increase the exposure to beta blockers, selective (metoprolol).

Unknown Study

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Propafenone is predicted to increase the exposure to beta blockers, selective (metoprolol). Also see TABLE 6 p. 1518

Unknown Study

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Bupropion is predicted to increase the exposure to beta blockers, selective (metoprolol, nebivolol).

Unknown Study

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Cinacalcet is predicted to increase the exposure to beta blockers, selective (metoprolol, nebivolol).

Unknown Study

Metoprolol - increases exposure

Mirabegron is predicted to increase the exposure to metoprolol.

Unknown Study

Data from BNF 85 (British National Formulary). This is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Matched via: exact

Disclaimer: This information is sourced from Pharmacy and Poisons Board (Kenya). Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication.

About this medicine

Metoprolol is a type of medicine known as a beta blocker, which helps lower blood pressure and manage heart conditions.

What it treats

  • high blood pressure (hypertension)
  • angina (chest pain)
  • heart failure
  • irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)

How it works

It works by blocking certain signals in the heart, which helps to slow down the heart rate and reduce blood pressure.

Who it's for

It is usually prescribed for adults with heart problems or high blood pressure.

Drug class

Beta blockers

Cautions

  • • Be careful if you are taking other medications that slow the heart rate (bradycardia).
  • • Be cautious if you are on medications that lower blood pressure (hypotension).

AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.

Clinical monograph: metoprolol

BNF-referenced

Metoprolol is a selective beta-1-adrenergic receptor blocker primarily used in the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and heart failure. It exhibits minimal activity on beta-2 receptors, making it advantageous in patients with respiratory conditions. This drug reduces heart rate and myocardial contractility, leading to decreased cardiac output and overall myocardial oxygen demand.

Indications

  • Hypertension
  • Angina pectoris
  • Heart failure
  • Arrhythmias
  • Myocardial infarction prevention

Dosage

Children: Paediatric dosing of metoprolol is not provided in the BNF text supplied. It is essential to refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate paediatric dosing recommendations.

Adults: The typical dose of metoprolol for adults varies based on the specific indication and patient factors. For hypertension, the initial dose is often 50 mg once daily, which may be adjusted based on response. For angina, the usual starting dose is also 50 mg, taken twice daily. It is recommended to refer to the BNF for specific dosing guidelines.

Mechanism of action

Metoprolol selectively inhibits beta-1-adrenergic receptors in cardiac cells, leading to negative chronotropic and inotropic effects. It reduces automaticity, decreases conduction velocity, and enhances refractoriness in accessory pathways. By blocking adrenergic stimulation, metoprolol lowers heart rate and myocardial contractility, contributing to its antihypertensive effects.

Pharmacodynamics

Administration of metoprolol results in a dose-dependent decrease in heart rate and cardiac output. It reduces cardiac excitability and myocardial oxygen demand, improving outcomes in patients with arrhythmias by suppressing atrioventricular conduction. Clinical trials indicate that metoprolol significantly reduces mortality and reinfarction risk in post-myocardial infarction patients.

Pharmacokinetics

Metoprolol is rapidly absorbed and undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism in the liver, leading to variable bioavailability. Peak plasma concentrations occur approximately 1-2 hours post-administration. The drug is primarily excreted by the kidneys, with a half-life of around 3-7 hours. Individual pharmacokinetic profiles may vary based on genetic factors and co-administered medications.

Contra-indications

  • Severe bradycardia
  • Heart block greater than first degree
  • Cardiogenic shock
  • Uncontrolled heart failure
  • Hypersensitivity to metoprolol or any component of the formulation

Adverse effects

  • Bradycardia
  • Hypotension
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Depression
  • Cold extremities
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sleep disturbances

Interactions

  • dacomitinib+metoprolol: Severe (increases exposure)
  • eliglustat+metoprolol: Moderate (increases exposure)
  • fedratinib+metoprolol: Moderate (increases exposure)
  • panobinostat+metoprolol: Moderate (increases exposure)
  • abiraterone+metoprolol: Unknown (increases exposure)
  • propafenone+metoprolol: Unknown (increases exposure)
  • bupropion+metoprolol: Unknown (increases exposure)
  • cinacalcet+metoprolol: Unknown (increases exposure)
  • mirabegron+metoprolol: Unknown (increases exposure)
  • snris+metoprolol: Unknown (increases exposure)

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease due to potential for bronchoconstriction at high doses
  • Monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly
  • Caution in patients with diabetes as it may mask hypoglycemic symptoms
  • Taper dose gradually to avoid rebound hypertension

Pregnancy

Metoprolol is classified as a category C drug. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breast-feeding

Metoprolol is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

  • Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Clinical monograph: Metoprololtartrate

BNF-referenced

Metoprolol tartrate is a selective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist used primarily in the management of hypertension and various cardiac conditions. It works by blocking the action of catecholamines at beta-1 receptors in the heart, leading to decreased heart rate and myocardial contractility, which reduces cardiac output and lowers blood pressure. Additionally, it can be used in the treatment of tachyarrhythmias and to manage symptoms in hyperthyroidism.

Indications

  • Hypertension
  • Short-term treatment of supraventricular arrhythmias
  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Atrial flutter
  • Sinus tachycardia
  • Tachycardia and hypertension in the perioperative period
  • Symptomatic relief in hyperthyroidism

Dosage

Children: In children, the usual dose is 1 to 2 mg/kg daily in 2 to 4 divided doses, with a maximum of 8 mg/kg daily.

Adults: 200 mg once daily, increased if necessary to 400 mg once daily.

Mechanism of action

Metoprolol tartrate selectively blocks beta-1 adrenergic receptors, which results in a decrease in heart rate and myocardial contractility. This action reduces the workload on the heart and decreases oxygen demand, thereby lowering blood pressure.

Pharmacodynamics

As a beta-1 blocker, metoprolol exhibits negative chronotropic (decreasing heart rate) and inotropic (decreasing force of contraction) effects. This results in lower cardiac output and, consequently, reduced blood pressure. The drug also has a mild effect on reducing renin release from the kidneys, contributing further to its antihypertensive effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Metoprolol is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract but undergoes significant first-pass metabolism in the liver, which reduces its bioavailability to approximately 50%. It has a half-life of about 3 to 7 hours, allowing for once or twice daily dosing. Metoprolol is primarily eliminated by hepatic metabolism, and renal excretion of metabolites also occurs. Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with hepatic impairment but are generally not required for mild renal impairment.

Contra-indications

  • Severe bradycardia
  • Heart block greater than first degree
  • Cardiogenic shock
  • Uncontrolled heart failure
  • Hypersensitivity to metoprolol or any component of the formulation

Adverse effects

  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Hypotension
  • Bradycardia
  • Heart block
  • Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Cold extremities
  • Peripheral edema

Interactions

  • Other antihypertensive drugs may enhance the hypotensive effect
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce antihypertensive effect
  • Caution with other beta-blockers
  • Concurrent use with calcium channel blockers may increase the risk of bradycardia and heart block
  • Caution with drugs that affect CYP2D6 metabolism

Precautions

  • Caution in patients with asthma or reactive airway disease
  • Caution in patients with diabetes mellitus, as it may mask signs of hypoglycemia
  • Monitor in patients with hepatic impairment
  • Gradual withdrawal is advised to avoid acute tachycardia, hypertension, or ischemic symptoms

Pregnancy

Metoprolol should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult guidelines for specific recommendations.

Breast-feeding

Manufacturers advise avoidance during breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on the infant.

Storage

Store below 25°C, protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

  • Metoprolol tartrate 25 mg tablets
  • Metoprolol tartrate 50 mg tablets
  • Metoprolol tartrate 100 mg tablets
BNF 85 (British National Formulary) p.191 BNF for Children 2019-2020 p.131 PubChem / pathway

AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.

Molecular reference: metoprolol

PubChem CID 4171

Molecular formula: C15H25NO3

Mechanism of action

Metoprolol is a beta-1-adrenergic receptor inhibitor specific to cardiac cells with negligible effect on beta-2 receptors. This inhibition decreases cardiac output by producing negative chronotropic and inotropic effects without presenting activity towards membrane stabilization nor intrinsic sympathomimetics. Beta-adenoreceptor blocking property the amount of beta1 and beta2 effect depends on the cardioselectivity of the drug. Decreased automaticity. Reduced conduction velocity and increased refractoriness in accessory bundles (Wolff- Parkinson-White syndrome). /Class II- beta-Blocking Agents/ At low doses, metoprolol is a selective inhibitor of beta 1-adrenergic receptors. Like propranolol, metoprolol inhibits response to adrenergic stimuli by competitively blocking b1-adrenergic receptors within the myocardium. Unlike propranolol, however, metoprolol blocks b2-adrenergic receptors within bronchial and vascular smooth muscle only in high doses. The precise mechanism of metoprolol's hypotensive action has not been determined. It has been postulated that beta-adrenergic blocking agents reduce blood pressure by blocking peripheral (especially cardiac) adrenergic receptors (decreasing cardiac output), by decreasing sympathetic outflow from the CNS, and/or by suppressing renin release. In the management of angina pectoris, the mechanism of action of metoprolol is thought to be blockage of catecholamine-induced increases in heart rate, velocity and extent of myocardial contraction, and blood pressure, which results in a net decrease in myocardial oxygen consumption. For more Mechanism of Action (Complete) data for METOPROLOL (7 total), please visit the HSDB record page.

Pharmacodynamics

Administration of metoprolol in normal subjects is widely reported to produce a dose-dependent reduction on heart rate and cardiac output. This effect is generated due to a decreased cardiac excitability, cardiac output, and myocardial oxygen demand. In the case of arrhythmias, metoprolol produces its effect by reducing the slope of the pacemaker potential as well as suppressing the rate of atrioventricular conduction. The Metoprolol Atherosclerosis Prevention in Hypertensives (MAPHY) trial showed a significant improvement in sudden cardiac death and myocardial infarction when patients were given with metoprolol as compared with diuretics. As well, in clinical trials performed in 1990, metoprolol reduces mortality and re-infarction in 17% of the individuals when administered chronically after an episode of myocardial infarction.

Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.

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