Metoprolol is a selective beta-1 adrenergic receptor blocker, or 'beta-blocker'. It works primarily by decreasing the heart's workload, which lowers heart rate, reduces the force of heart contractions, and lowers blood pressure. Its role is strictly for the management of diagnosed cardiovascular diseases, not for general healthspan extension in healthy individuals.
Verdict
Highly effective for cardiovascular disease management under medical supervision.
HEALTHSPAN IMPACT
Foundational
RISK LEVEL
Moderate
EVIDENCE GRADE
A
MONTHLY COST
$5 - $30
Protocol
- For hypertension, typically started at 25-100 mg daily in one or two divided doses.
- For stable angina, the usual initial dosage is 100 mg daily in two divided doses.
- For heart failure, dosing is started very low (e.g., 12.5 mg daily) and titrated up slowly under supervision.
Flags
- Abrupt discontinuation can cause rebound hypertension or cardiac events.
- May mask symptoms of hypoglycemia in diabetic patients.
- Can worsen symptoms of asthma or COPD.
- Common side effects include fatigue, dizziness, depression, and bradycardia (slow heart rate).
- Contraindicated in patients with severe bradycardia, heart block, or cardiogenic shock.