Betaloc 25mg Tablet
Prescription Required
Marketer
AstraZeneca
SALT COMPOSITION
Metoprolol Tartrate (25mg)
Storage
Store below 30°C
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Product Introduction
Betaloc 25mg Tablet is a prescription medication containing Metoprolol Tartrate, a selective beta-1 blocker that primarily affects the heart. This well-established medication has been a cornerstone in cardiovascular treatment for decades, known for its efficacy and relatively favorable safety profile. Metoprolol works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body (such as epinephrine) that affect the heart and blood vessels, resulting in a lower heart rate and reduced blood pressure.
Primarily prescribed for hypertension (high blood pressure), angina pectoris (chest pain), and various cardiac arrhythmias, Betaloc 25mg also plays a crucial role in secondary prevention after myocardial infarction (heart attack). The 25mg dosage represents a low to moderate strength, often used as a starting dose that can be adjusted based on individual patient response and needs.
Betaloc works by selectively blocking beta-1 adrenergic receptors located primarily in cardiac tissue. This selectivity is particularly beneficial as it minimizes the side effects that would otherwise occur from blocking beta-2 receptors in the lungs and blood vessels. The result is a reduced workload on the heart, which decreases oxygen demand and improves cardiac efficiency.
Healthcare providers value Betaloc for its predictable pharmacokinetics, manageable side effect profile, and proven clinical outcomes. Its effectiveness in reducing mortality after heart attack and managing essential hypertension has been demonstrated through extensive clinical research and decades of practical application. The medication has a relatively short half-life, necessitating twice-daily dosing for most patients to maintain consistent blood levels and therapeutic effect.
For patients with cardiovascular concerns, Betaloc 25mg offers a reliable treatment option that helps control symptoms, reduces cardiovascular risk, and improves quality of life when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include lifestyle modifications and other medications.
Key Composition & Ingredients
- Active Ingredient: Metoprolol Tartrate (25mg)
- Inactive Ingredients: May include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, sodium starch glycolate, colloidal silicon dioxide, magnesium stearate, and other pharmaceutical excipients that may vary by manufacturer
Uses of Betaloc Tablet
- Treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Management of angina pectoris (chest pain)
- Prevention of heart attack recurrence
- Treatment of certain cardiac arrhythmias
- Management of stable heart failure
- Off-label uses may include migraine prevention
- Management of certain symptoms of anxiety
- Treatment of certain tremors
- Management of hyperthyroidism symptoms
- Adjunct therapy in specific types of glaucoma
Benefits of Betaloc Tablet
- Blood Pressure Control: Effectively lowers and stabilizes elevated blood pressure
- Reduced Cardiac Workload: Decreases the heart's oxygen demand
- Angina Relief: Reduces frequency and severity of chest pain episodes
- Heart Attack Prevention: Lowers risk of mortality following myocardial infarction
- Arrhythmia Management: Helps regulate certain abnormal heart rhythms
- Cardioprotection: Provides long-term heart protection by reducing cardiac stress
- Symptom Control: May alleviate physical symptoms of anxiety such as palpitations
- Improved Exercise Tolerance: May enhance physical activity capabilities in angina patients
- Stroke Risk Reduction: Contributes to decreased stroke risk through blood pressure control
- Better Quality of Life: Reduces cardiovascular symptoms that interfere with daily activities
How Betaloc Tablet Works (Mechanism of Action)
Betaloc (Metoprolol Tartrate) functions as a selective beta-1 adrenergic receptor blocker. This specificity means it primarily targets beta-1 receptors found in cardiac tissue, with less effect on beta-2 receptors located in the bronchial and vascular smooth muscle.
When metoprolol binds to beta-1 receptors, it prevents the natural catecholamines (such as epinephrine and norepinephrine) from activating these receptors. This blockade results in:
- Decreased heart rate (negative chronotropic effect): By reducing the firing rate of the sinoatrial node, the heart's natural pacemaker.
- Reduced force of heart contractions (negative inotropic effect): Resulting in lower cardiac output and decreased oxygen consumption by the heart muscle.
- Slowed conduction of electrical impulses through the heart (negative dromotropic effect): Particularly through the atrioventricular (AV) node.
- Decreased renin release from the kidneys: This contributes to its antihypertensive effect by reducing the formation of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor.
For hypertension, these effects lead to reduced peripheral vascular resistance and lowered blood pressure. In angina, the decreased heart rate and contractility reduce myocardial oxygen demand, helping prevent ischemic episodes. For arrhythmias, the slowed conduction through the heart helps regulate abnormal rhythms.
The drug's cardioselective nature at lower doses helps minimize unwanted effects on bronchial smooth muscle, making it a preferred choice for patients with respiratory concerns compared to non-selective beta-blockers.
Dosage of Betaloc Tablet
Daily Dose
- Hypertension: Initially 25mg twice daily, gradually increasing if needed. Maintenance dose typically 100-200mg daily in divided doses.
- Angina: Usually 25-50mg twice daily, increased as needed up to 200mg daily.
- Post-Myocardial Infarction: Treatment typically begins with 25-50mg twice daily.
- Arrhythmias: 25-50mg 2-3 times daily, adjusted based on response.
Missed Dose
- Take as soon as remembered if within a few hours of the scheduled time.
- If close to the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue regular schedule.
- Never double the dose to compensate for a missed one.
- Contact healthcare provider if multiple doses are missed.
Overdose
- Symptoms may include severe bradycardia, hypotension, bronchospasm, cardiac failure, cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, and hypoglycemia.
- Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.
- Treatment typically includes activated charcoal (if recently ingested), gastric lavage, and supportive measures including atropine for bradycardia, glucagon or IV glucose for hypoglycemia, and potentially temporary cardiac pacing.
Mode of Action of Betaloc Tablet
Betaloc (Metoprolol Tartrate) exerts its therapeutic effects through selective antagonism of beta-1 adrenergic receptors, primarily affecting cardiac function through multiple pathways:
- Cardiac Rate Regulation: By blocking beta-1 receptors in the sinoatrial node, metoprolol reduces the influence of sympathetic nervous system stimulation, resulting in decreased heart rate.
- Blood Pressure Modulation: The reduction in cardiac output combined with inhibition of renin release from juxtaglomerular cells in the kidneys leads to decreased formation of angiotensin II and subsequent vasodilation.
- Myocardial Oxygen Balance: By decreasing heart rate, contractility, and blood pressure, metoprolol reduces myocardial oxygen demand, which is particularly beneficial in angina and post-myocardial infarction states.
- Electrophysiological Effects: Metoprolol slows conduction through the atrioventricular node, which helps control certain tachyarrhythmias.
- Neurohormonal Modulation: Long-term use appears to modulate the neurohormonal activation that occurs in heart failure, contributing to its beneficial effects in this condition.
The beta-1 selectivity of metoprolol (particularly at lower doses) provides cardiovascular benefits while minimizing the bronchoconstrictive effects associated with non-selective beta-blockers.
How to Use Betaloc Tablet
Directions for Use
- Take Betaloc exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water.
- Can be taken with or without food, but taking with food may help reduce stomach upset.
- Take at the same times each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
- Do not abruptly discontinue taking Betaloc as this can lead to serious cardiac events; dosage should be gradually reduced under medical supervision.
- If using for hypertension, continue taking even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms.
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate is recommended while taking this medication.
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Side Effects of Betaloc Tablet
Common Side Effects & Management
- Fatigue/Drowsiness: Often improves with continued use; take adequate rest and avoid driving until you know how this medication affects you.
- Dizziness: Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions; avoid sudden position changes.
- Slow Heart Rate: Usually not concerning unless symptomatic; report significant slowing to your doctor.
- Cold Hands and Feet: Wear warm clothing; avoid unnecessary exposure to cold.
- Mild Nausea: Taking with food may help alleviate this symptom.
- Sleep Disturbances/Nightmares: Taking the medication earlier in the day may help; discuss persistent problems with your doctor.
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Swelling of ankles/feet
- Mental/mood changes (confusion, depression)
- Very slow heartbeat
- Signs of heart failure (worsening shortness of breath, unusual fatigue)
- Bluish color of fingers/toes
- Unexplained weight gain
Safety Advice for Betaloc Tablet
Alcohol
- Caution advised: Alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of metoprolol, potentially causing excessive drop in blood pressure.
- Limit alcohol consumption while taking Betaloc.
Pregnancy
- Category C: Risk cannot be ruled out. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus.
- Discuss with healthcare provider if pregnant or planning pregnancy.
- May cause reduced placental perfusion and low birth weight.
Breastfeeding
- Metoprolol passes into breast milk in small amounts.
- Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but monitoring of the infant for possible side effects is recommended.
- Consult healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Driving
- May cause dizziness, fatigue, or blurred vision in some patients.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Kidney
- Dose adjustment generally not required in mild to moderate kidney impairment.
- Use with caution and possible dose reduction in severe kidney dysfunction.
Liver
- Reduced liver function may lead to increased blood levels of metoprolol.
- Dose reduction may be necessary in patients with liver impairment.
- Regular liver function monitoring is advisable during long-term therapy.
Children
- Safety and efficacy not well established in children.
- Generally not recommended for pediatric use without specialist supervision.
Older Patients
- More sensitive to side effects, particularly dizziness and hypotension.
- Often require lower starting doses with careful titration.
- Regular monitoring of vital signs recommended.
Lactation
- Metoprolol passes into breast milk but is generally considered safe during breastfeeding.
- Infants should be monitored for possible bradycardia or hypotension.
Allergy
- Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to metoprolol or other beta-blockers.
- Alternative medications should be considered for patients with history of severe allergic reactions.
Warnings & Precautions of Betaloc Tablet
- Abrupt Discontinuation: Never stop taking Betaloc suddenly as this may cause serious cardiac events including rebound hypertension and angina; dosage should be tapered gradually over 1-2 weeks.
- Bradycardia: Use with caution in patients with slow heart rate; monitor heart rate regularly.
- Heart Failure: While beneficial in stable heart failure, may temporarily worsen symptoms when therapy is initiated; start with low dose and monitor closely.
- Bronchospastic Disease: Even though metoprolol is beta-1 selective, use with caution in patients with asthma or COPD; higher doses may affect beta-2 receptors.
- Diabetes: May mask symptoms of hypoglycemia (particularly tachycardia); regular blood glucose monitoring is advisable.
- Thyrotoxicosis: May mask certain clinical signs of hyperthyroidism; abrupt withdrawal could precipitate thyroid storm.
- Peripheral Vascular Disease: May exacerbate symptoms of arterial insufficiency; use with caution.
- Surgery/Anesthesia: Inform anesthesiologist about metoprolol therapy before any surgical procedure.
- Pheochromocytoma: Should be used only after alpha-blocker therapy has been initiated to prevent paradoxical hypertension.
- Prinzmetal's Angina: May increase the number and duration of angina attacks; alternative treatments preferred.
Interactions with Betaloc Tablet
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Calcium Channel Blockers (especially verapamil, diltiazem): Enhanced negative effects on heart rate, conduction, and contractility; may cause severe bradycardia or heart block.
- Antiarrhythmics (amiodarone, propafenone, quinidine): May potentiate cardiac effects and increase metoprolol blood levels.
- CYP2D6 Inhibitors (fluoxetine, paroxetine, bupropion): May increase metoprolol blood levels, enhancing effects and side effects.
- Insulin and Oral Antidiabetics: May enhance hypoglycemic effect and mask warning signs of hypoglycemia.
- Clonidine: Concomitant withdrawal of clonidine and metoprolol may result in severe rebound hypertension.
- NSAIDs: May reduce antihypertensive effect of metoprolol.
- Digoxin: Combined use may result in excessive bradycardia and potential AV block.
- Alpha-blockers: May enhance hypotensive effects; monitor blood pressure when used together.
Drug-Food Interactions
- High-Fat Meals: May slightly increase bioavailability of metoprolol.
- Grapefruit Juice: Generally not a significant interaction with metoprolol (unlike with some other cardiovascular medications).
- Licorice: May counteract the antihypertensive effects through sodium and water retention.
- Caffeine: May slightly antagonize some effects of beta-blockers.
Contraindications of Betaloc Tablet
Betaloc is contraindicated in patients with:
- Severe bradycardia (heart rate <45-50 beats per minute)
- Second or third-degree heart block
- Sick sinus syndrome without permanent pacemaker
- Cardiogenic shock
- Decompensated heart failure requiring inotropic therapy
- Severe peripheral arterial disease
- Untreated pheochromocytoma
- Known hypersensitivity to metoprolol or any components of the formulation
- Severe hepatic impairment (use with caution)
- Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors (within 14 days)
- Severe unstable/uncontrolled heart failure
Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category
Betaloc (Metoprolol Tartrate) is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, indicating that risk cannot be ruled out. Animal reproduction studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans. The potential benefit may warrant use despite potential risks.
Safety measures include:
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate
- Periodic assessment of cardiac function in long-term use
- Blood glucose monitoring in diabetic patients
- Gradual dose tapering when discontinuing
- Baseline and periodic liver and kidney function tests in susceptible patients
- Evaluation for worsening heart failure symptoms during initial therapy or dose adjustments
Diet & Lifestyle Advice
- Sodium Restriction: Limit salt intake to enhance blood pressure control.
- DASH Diet: Consider following the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension eating plan, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in moderate physical activity (with physician approval) to help manage blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.
- Weight Management: Maintain healthy weight to reduce cardiac workload and improve medication efficacy.
- Smoking Cessation: Strongly recommended as smoking reduces the effectiveness of beta-blockers and increases cardiovascular risk.
- Alcohol Moderation: Limit alcohol consumption which can counteract antihypertensive effects.
- Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
- Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake, particularly in hot weather or during exercise.
- Potassium-Rich Foods: Include bananas, oranges, potatoes, and spinach in diet (unless contraindicated).
- Regular Sleep Pattern: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night.
Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine
Healthcare providers recommend Betaloc 25mg Tablet for several compelling reasons:
- Proven Efficacy: Extensive clinical research demonstrates metoprolol's effectiveness in treating hypertension, angina, and reducing mortality after heart attack.
- Cardioselectivity: At lower doses, it preferentially blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, minimizing unwanted effects on airways compared to non-selective beta-blockers.
- Established Safety Profile: Decades of clinical use have established a well-understood safety profile with manageable side effects.
- Mortality Benefit: Has been shown to reduce death rates in post-myocardial infarction patients and those with heart failure.
- Flexible Dosing: The 25mg strength allows for appropriate starting doses with gradual titration based on individual response.
- Multiple Indications: Addresses several cardiovascular conditions with a single medication.
- Well-Tolerated: Generally causes fewer central nervous system side effects than some other beta-blockers.
- Cost-Effective: Available as generic metoprolol tartrate, providing an economical treatment option.
- Predictable Pharmacokinetics: Consistent absorption and elimination patterns allow for reliable dosing strategies.
- Extensive Clinical Experience: Long history of use provides confidence in its application across diverse patient populations.
Substitutes of Betaloc Tablet & Alternative Medicines
Similar Beta-1 Selective Blockers
- Metolar (Metoprolol)
- Lopresor (Metoprolol)
- Seloken (Metoprolol)
- Metroprolol (Metoprolol)
- Toprol XL (Metoprolol succinate - extended release form)
Other Beta-Blockers
- Atenolol (Tenormin): Similar cardioselectivity but longer acting
- Bisoprolol (Concor): Highly beta-1 selective
- Nebivolol (Nebilet): Highly selective with nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation
- Carvedilol (Coreg): Combined alpha and beta-blocker
Alternative Drug Classes
- Calcium Channel Blockers (Amlodipine, Nifedipine)
- ACE Inhibitors (Enalapril, Lisinopril)
- Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (Losartan, Valsartan)
- Diuretics (Hydrochlorothiazide, Indapamide)
- Central Alpha-2 Agonists (Clonidine, Methyldopa)
Storage Guidelines
- Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F)
- Keep away from direct light, heat, and moisture
- Do not store in the bathroom
- Keep container tightly closed
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
- Do not use after the expiration date printed on the package
- Avoid freezing
- Dispose of unused or expired medication properly as directed by your pharmacist
User Feedback & Patient Concerns
Common feedback from patients taking Betaloc includes:
-
Positive Feedback:
- Effective blood pressure control
- Reduction in angina episodes
- Improvement in exercise tolerance
- Decrease in palpitations and racing heartbeat
-
Common Concerns:
- Fatigue, especially during initial treatment
- Sexual dysfunction in some patients
- Cold extremities, particularly in winter
- Questions about long-term use safety
- Concerns about interaction with exercise programs
Patients often report that side effects tend to diminish after the first few weeks of treatment. Many find the benefits outweigh the initial adjustment period.
Quick Tips for Betaloc Tablet
- Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels
- Monitor your blood pressure and heart rate regularly at home if possible
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness
- Do not stop taking suddenly; dose must be gradually reduced
- Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry identification indicating you take a beta-blocker
- Keep all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider
- If you have diabetes, be aware that symptoms of low blood sugar may be masked
- Stay well-hydrated, especially in hot weather or during exercise
- Inform all healthcare providers, including dentists, about this medication
- Avoid over-the-counter cold medicines containing stimulants without consulting your doctor
Fact Box
Chemical Class
- Beta-adrenergic blocking agent (Beta-blocker)
- Tartrate salt of metoprolol
Habit Forming
- Non-habit forming
Therapeutic Class
- Antihypertensive
- Anti-anginal
- Antiarrhythmic (Class II)
Action Class
- Selective beta-1 adrenergic receptor blocker
Useful Diagnostic Tests
Before and during Betaloc therapy, the following tests may be helpful:
- Baseline electrocardiogram (ECG)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Complete blood count
- Liver function tests
- Kidney function tests (BUN, creatinine)
- Fasting blood glucose levels (especially in diabetics)
- Lipid profile
- Thyroid function tests
- Echocardiogram (in heart failure patients)
- Exercise stress test (for angina patients)
More Information & References
For more detailed information about Betaloc and metoprolol tartrate, consult:
- American Heart Association guidelines
- European Society of Cardiology guidelines
- British National Formulary
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines
- FDA prescribing information for metoprolol tartrate
- Peer-reviewed literature on beta-blocker therapy in cardiovascular disease
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of information you have read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or emergency services. This medication should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Individual responses to medications may vary.
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Betaloc 25mg Tablet – Heart & BP Medicine | Buy Online at RXDawa