Metoprolol

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Metoprolol

Metoprolol (pronounced: meh-toh-proh-lol) is a type of medication known as a beta blocker. It is used to treat various heart conditions, including hypertension, angina, and arrhythmia, as well as to prevent myocardial infarction (heart attack).

Etymology

The term "Metoprolol" is derived from the Greek words "metopon" and "prolol". "Metopon" means "forehead", referring to the head or top part of the heart, and "prolol" is a suffix used in pharmacology to denote substances that block or inhibit.

Usage

Metoprolol works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This effect reduces heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Metoprolol include fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Related Terms

  • Beta Blocker: A class of medications that are particularly used to manage abnormal heart rhythms, and to protect the heart from a second heart attack (myocardial infarction) after a first heart attack (secondary prevention).
  • Hypertension: Also known as high blood pressure, it is a long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated.
  • Angina: A type of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
  • Arrhythmia: Also known as cardiac dysrhythmia, it is a group of conditions in which the heartbeat is irregular, too fast, or too slow.
  • Myocardial Infarction: Commonly known as a heart attack, it occurs when blood flow decreases or stops to a part of the heart, causing damage to the heart muscle.

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