Written by: Mark Spera Can You Get a Metoprolol Tartrate Prescription Online?
Metoprolol tartrate is the generic name for Lopressor, among other brand names. Although both are categorized as a beta blocker and closely related to metoprolol succinate (Toprol), these medications aren’t interchangeable. They do, however, both treat heart-related problems and work to lower blood pressure and heart rate.
If you or someone you know is suffering from conditions like hypertension, angina, and arrhythmia, the use of metoprolol tartrate may be beneficial. But before you can access a prescription, you will have to undergo a consultation to find out whether the medication would be truly advantageous for your situation.
What is Metoprolol Tartrate?
Although similar to metoprolol succinate, metoprolol tartrate is a completely different medication and should not be interchanged with the former. Both of these drugs use the main active ingredient metoprolol, but use different salts. In effect, they target different conditions, both of which involve the heart.
Similar to succinate, tartrate can address high blood pressure and chest pain related to heart disease. However, unlike succinate, metoprolol tartrate can’t address heart failure. In the same light, it may be able to target certain conditions that metoprolol succinate can’t – these include unstable angina and arrhythmia. Tartrate can also be used for heart attack prevention.
How Does Metoprolol Tartrate Work?
Metoprolol tartrate works similarly to other beta blockers. It relaxes the muscles of the heart to reduce their need for oxygen. In doing so, the medication can balance out the available oxygen, reconciling the supply with the demand.
When used with certain other medications – such as amiodarone – metoprolol tartrate can help prevent atrial fibrilation as it slows down the contractions of the heart and assists the muscles to achieve the ideal heart beat regularity.
Metoprolol Tartrate Dosage and Treatment
Unlike metoprolol succinate, metoprolol tartrate stays in our system far shorter. So it may be necessary to take more doses than just one each day. The medication comes in tablet form at 25mg, 37.5mg, 50mg, 75mg, and 100mg. An injectible soluiton is also available at 5mg/5mL.
As with other medications, the use of metoprolol tartrate should be individualized. Dosage will depend on several factors, but there are certain guidelines that can shed light on the specific dosage you might need.
• Hypertension: Initial dose of 100mg per day. Maintenance dosage can range from 100mg to 400mg daily. This may be divided into multiple intakes. Maximum dosage of 450mg a day. Dosage may be increased at weekly intervals or longer.
• Angina Pectoris: 50mg twice daily. Maintenance dosage of 100mg to 400mg per day, with a maximum of 400mg.
• Myocardial Infarction: 3 doses of 5mg IV every 2 minutes. If patient can tolerate a full IV dose, wait 15 minutes and follow the last IV dose with 50mg of oral metoprolol tartrate every 6 hours. If the patient is intolerant of a full IV dose, provide 15mg to 50mg of metoprolol orally 15 minutes after the last IV dose or when the patient’s condition allows it.
Benefits of Metoprolol Tartrate
The functions of metoprolol tartrate are more versatile than those of succinate. The medication manages blood pressure, relieves heart-related chest pain, treats unstable angina and arrhythmia, and helps prevent a heart attack.
On top of that, metoprolol tartrate also provides far less side effects and a lower risk for adverse reactions, making it safer for most individuals.
Side Effects of Metoprolol Tartrate
Despite being comparatively safer, metoprolol tartrate does have its own set of unique side effects. These can be anticipated to help ensure better management and to optimize functionality even after a dosage. Some of the side effects you may experience while taking metoprolol tartrate include:
• Fatigue
• Dizziness and headaches
• Diarrhea
• Lowered mood
• Slower than normal heart rate
• Rashes
In very rare instances (<2%) metoprolol tartrate may cause certain adverse reactions. These include:
• Depression
• Shortness of breath
• Abnormally low blood pressure
Be sure to keep yourself aware of the development of any unusual symptoms after the intake of metoprolol tartrate and inform your primary care physician immediately to prevent further complications.
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Considerations and Precautions of Metoprolol Tartrate
Individuals with certain conditions might not be able to experience the maximum benefits of metoprolol tartrate in the presence of certain conditions. These include:
• Peripheral artery disease
• Breathing problems and lung disease
• Diabetes and hypoglycemia
• Adrenal gland tumor
• Thyroid disease
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
Certain medications may also negatively interact with the drug. These include:
• Antidepressants
• Blood thinners
• Reserpine
• Hydralazine
• Antiretroviral medications
• Antihistamines
• Antifungals
This is not an all-inclusive list. Be sure to discuss your medication regimen with your doctor to learn more about the possible interactions that may occur with metoprolol tartrate.
Can You Buy Metoprolol Tartrate Online?
A doctor’s prescription is required for you to obtain metoprolol tartrate, online or otherwise. At Plushcare, you can book an online consultation with one of the many doctors they have to find out whether you’d benefit from the use of metoprolol tartrate.
Think you may need a metoprolol tartrate prescription? Book an appointment with a PlushCare physician and get a prescription today!
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