If you are taking metoprolol, it’s important to be aware of potential drug interactions.
This is not a comprehensive list of all drugs that may interact with metoprolol.
Consult your healthcare provider before combining metoprolol with an MAOI.
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In many cases, your provider will not even prescribe this combination together.
If they do decide to prescribe both drugs, you will need to watch for potential side effects.
This enzyme is involved in processing about 25% of commonly prescribed medications.
This can cause or worsen side effects.
Lower starting doses of metoprolol may be needed.
Ask your provider if you are unsure whether any of the medications you take are CYP2D6 inhibitors.
If digoxin is combined with a beta-blocker like metoprolol, there is a higher chance of bradycardia.
In some cases, you might be prescribed both metoprolol and digoxin.
If your healthcare provider prescribes these medications together, they will closely monitor your heart rate.
Clonidine
Clonidine can also slow the heart rate.
However, when combined, these medications can cause blood pressure to drop too low.
Because of this effect, there may be an increased risk for severe or prolonged low blood sugar.
The risk is higher in people with diabetes as well as anyone who is fasting or sick with vomiting.
Know what to do if your blood sugar is too low and when to get emergency medical help.
Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist to understand how this medication might interact with anything else you’re taking.
However, not all OTC treatments are recommended if you have high blood pressure and/or take metoprolol.
Sudafed (Pseudoephedrine)
Pseudoephedrine is an oral decongestant found in Sudafed and other products.
Pseudoephedrine can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which can counteract the effects of metoprolol.
Your healthcare provider may recommend that you monitor your blood pressure closely if you mix these medicines.
If you take metoprolol, always check with your pharmacist or healthcare provider before using any OTC drugs.
EpiPen (Epinephrine)
Epinephrineis commonly used to treat life-threatening allergic reactions.
Alcohol
Most metoprolol products do not have a specific warning regarding alcohol, except Kapspargo (metoprolol succinate).
Kapspargo contains a specific formulation of metoprolol succinate that is released in a controlled manner over 24 hours.
If you take Kapspargo, you should avoid alcohol.
Does Metoprolol Interact With Grapefruit?
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice interact with many drugs due to their effect on an enzyme called CYP3A4.
Metoprolol does not interact with grapefruit juice.
However, people who take metoprolol may take other drugs that interact with grapefruit, such as cholesterol medication.
Check with your healthcare provider regarding any dietary restrictions.
Certain OTC medicines can affect how well metoprolol works or may increase side effects.
If you take Kapspargo, you should avoid alcohol.
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