Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 25mg Taj Pharma

Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 25mg Taj Pharma
1. Name of the medicinal product
  Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 12.5mg
  Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 25mg
  Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 50mg
  Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 100mg
  Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 200mg
2. Qualitative and quantitative composition
a) Each film coated Extended Release tablet contains;
Metoprolol Succinate USP 11.88mg
Equivalent to Metoprolol Tartarate USP 12.5mg
Exipients q.s
Colour: Sunset Yellow FCF
b) Each film coated Extended Release tablet contains;
Metoprolol Succinate USP 23.5mg
Equivalent to Metoprolol Tartarate USP 25mg
Exipients q.s
Colour: Brilliant Blue FCF
c) Each film coated Extended Release tablet contains;
Metoprolol Succinate USP 47.5mg
Equivalent to Metoprolol Tartarate USP 50mg
Exipients q.s
Colour: Sunset Yellow FCF
d) Each film coated Extended Release tablet contains;
Metoprolol Succinate USP 95mg
Equivalent to Metoprolol Tartarate USP 100mg
Exipients q.s
Colour: Sunset Yellow FCF
e) Each film coated Extended Release tablet contains;
Metoprolol Succinate USP 190mg
Equivalent to Metoprolol Tartarate USP 200mg
Exipients q.s
Colour: Brilliant Blue FCF

Pharmaceutical form

Film Coated Tablet

Clinical particulars

4.1 Therapeutic indications

In the management of:

1) Hypertension.

2) Angina pectoris.

3) Cardiac arrhythmias (especially supraventricular tachyarrhythmias).

4) As an adjunctive treatment of thyrotoxicosis.

5) Prophylaxis of migraine.

6) Early intervention of metoprolol succinate in acute myocardial infarction reduces infarct size and the incidence of ventricular fibrillation. Pain relief may also decrease the need for opiate analgesics.

Metoprolol succinate has been shown to reduce mortality when administered to patients with acute myocardial infarction.

4.2 Posology and method of administration

Posology

The following dosage regimes are intended only as a guideline and should always be adjusted to the individual requirements of the patient.

Adults

Hypertension

Initially 100mg daily. This may be increased, if necessary, to 200mg daily in single or divided doses. Combination therapy with a diuretic or vasodilator may also be considered to further reduce blood pressure.

Metoprolol may be administered with benefit both to previously untreated patients with hypertension and to those in whom the response to previous therapy is inadequate. In the latter type of patient the previous therapy may be continued and metoprolol added in to the regime with adjustment of the previous therapy if necessary.

Angina

Usually 50-100mg two or three times daily. In general a significant improvement in exercise tolerance and reduction of anginal attacks may be expected with a dose of 50-100mg twice daily.

Cardiac arrhythmias

50mg two or three times daily is usually sufficient. If necessary the dose may be increased to 300mg daily in divided doses.

Following the treatment of an acute arrhythmia with metoprolol succinate injection, continuation therapy with metoprolol tablets should be initiated 4-6 hours later. The initial oral dose should not exceed 50mg twice daily.

Myocardial infarction – early intervention

In order to achieve optimal benefits from intravenous metoprolol, suitable patients should present within 12 hours of the onset of chest pain. Therapy should commence with 5mg iv every 2 minutes to a maximum of 15mg total as determined by blood pressure and heart rate. The second or third dose should not be given if the systolic blood pressure is less than 90mmHg, the heart rate is less than 40 beats/minute and the P-Q time is greater than 0.26 seconds, or if there is any aggravation of dyspnoea or cold sweating. Orally, therapy should commence 15 minutes after the injection with 50mg every 6 hours for 48 hours. Patients who fail to tolerate the full i.v. dose should be given half the suggested oral dose.

Maintenance

The usual maintenance dose is 200mg daily given in divided doses. The treatment should be continued for at least 3 months.

Thyrotoxicosis

50mg four times daily. Dose should be reduced as euthyroid state is achieved.

Prophylaxis of migraine

100-200mg daily in divided doses (morning and evening).

Elderly

There is no evidence to suggest that dosage requirements are different in otherwise healthy elderly patients. However, caution is indicated in elderly patients as an excessive decrease in blood pressure or pulse rate may cause the blood supply to vital organs to fall to inadequate levels. Dosage should be reduced in the elderly where there is impairment of hepatic function.

Paediatric population

The safety and efficacy of Metoprolol in children has not been established.

Renal or Hepatic impairment

Dosages should be reduced where there is impairment of renal or hepatic function.

Method of Administration

For oral administration.

4.3 Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to metoprolol, related derivatives, any other beta-blockers or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.
Second or third degree atrioventricular block
Uncontrolled heart failure
Bradycardia
Sick-sinus syndrome
Prinzmetal’s angina
Untreated phaeochromocytoma
Metabolic acidosis
Severe peripheral arterial disease
Myocardial infarction complicated by significant bradycardia, first degree heart block, systolic hypotension (less than 100mmHg) and/or severe heart failure and cardiogenic shock
History of bronchospasm and asthma
Hypotension
Diabetes if associated with frequent episodes of hypoglycaemia
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Renal or hepatic failure

Therapy resistant hypokalaemia and hyponatraemia, hypercalcaemia, symptomatic hyperuricaemia, anuria.

Concomitant intravenous administration of calcium blockers of the type verapamil or diltiazem or other antiarrhythmics (such as disopyramide) is contraindicated (exception: intensive care unit).

4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use

Abrupt cessation of therapy with a beta-blocker should be avoided especially in patients with ischaemic heart disease. When possible, metoprolol should be withdrawn gradually over a period of 10 days, the doses diminishing to 25mg for the last 6 days. If necessary, at the same time, initiating replacement therapy, to prevent exacerbation of angina pectoris. In addition, hypertension and arrhythmias may develop. When it has been decided to interrupt a beta-blockade in preparation for surgery, therapy should be discontinued for at least 24 hours. Continuation of beta-blockade reduces the risk of arrhythmias during induction and intubation, however the risk of hypertension may be increased as well. If treatment is continued, caution should be observed with the use of certain anaesthetic drugs. The patient may be protected against vagal reactions by intravenous administration of atropine. During its withdrawal the patient should be kept under close surveillance.

Although cardioselective beta-blockers may have less effect on lung function than non selective beta-blockers these should be avoided in patients with reversible obstructive airways disease unless there are compelling clinical reasons for their use. Although metoprolol has proved safe in a large number of asthmatic patients, it is advisable to exercise care in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Therapy with a beta₂-stimulant may become necessary or current therapy require adjustment. Therefore, non-selective beta-blockers should not be used for these patients, and beta-₁ selective blockers only with the utmost care.

Discontinuation of the drug should be considered if any such reaction is not otherwise explicable. Cessation of therapy with a beta-blocker should be gradual.

Simultaneous administration of adrenaline (epinephrine), noradrenaline (norepinephrine) and β blockers may lead to an increase of blood pressure and bradycardia.

Metoprolol may induce or aggravate bradycardia, symptoms of peripheral arterial circulatory disorders and anaphylactic shock. If the pulse rate decreases to less than 50-55 beats per minute at rest and the patient experiences symptoms related to the bradycardia, the dosage should be reduced.

Metoprolol may be administered when heart failure has been controlled. Digitalisation and/or diuretic therapy should also be considered for patients with a history of heart failure or patients known to have a poor cardiac reserve.

Metoprolol may reduce the effect of diabetes treatment and mask the symptoms of hypoglycaemia. The risk of a carbohydrate metabolism disorder or masking of the symptoms of hypoglycaemia is lower when using metoprolol prolonged-release tablets than when using regular tablet forms for beta₁ selective beta blockers and significantly lower than when using non-selective beta blockers. In labile and insulin-dependent diabetes, it may be necessary to adjust the hypoglycaemic therapy.

In case of instable or insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, it may be necessary to adjust the hypoglycaemic treatment (because of the likelihood of severe hypoglycaemic conditions).

In patients with a phaeochromocytoma, an alpha-blocker should be given concomitantly.

In patients with significant hepatic dysfunction it may be necessary to adjust the dosage because metoprolol undergoes biotransformation in the liver. Patients with hepatic or renal insufficiency may need a lower dosage, and metoprolol is contraindicated in patients with hepatic or renal disease/failure (see section 4.3). The elderly should be treated with caution, starting with a lower dosage but tolerance is usually good in the elderly. It may be necessary to use a lower strength formulation in elderly patients and patients with hepatic or renal impairment and an alternative product should be prescribed.

Patients with anamnestically known psoriasis should take beta-blockers only after careful consideration as the medicine may cause aggravation of psoriasis.

Beta-blockers may increase both the sensitivity towards allergens and the seriousness of anaphylactic reactions. Adrenaline (epinephrine) treatment does not always give the desired therapeutic effect in individuals receiving beta blockers (see also section 4.5).

Beta-blockers may unmask myasthenia gravis.

In the presence of liver cirrhosis, the bioavailability of metoprolol may be increased, and dosage should be adjusted accordingly.

Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

The product labelling will carry the following warning: “Do not take this medicine if you have a history of wheezing or asthma”.

4.5 Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Anaesthetic drugs may attenuate reflex tachycardia and increase the risk of hypotension. Metoprolol therapy should be reported to the anaesthetist before the administration of a general anaesthetic. If possible, withdrawal of metoprolol should be completed at least 48 hours before anaesthesia. However, for some patients undergoing elective surgery, it may be desirable to employ a beta-blocker as premedication. By shielding the heart against the effect of stress, metoprolol may prevent excessive sympathetic stimulation which is liable to provoke such cardiac disturbance as arrhythmias or acute coronary insufficiency during induction and intubation. Anaesthetic agents causing myocardial depression, such as cyclopropane and trichlorethylene, are best avoided. In a patient under beta-blockade an anaesthetic with as little negative inotropic activity as possible (halothane/nitrous oxide) should be selected.
It may be necessary to adjust the dose of the hypoglycaemic agent in labile or insulin-dependent diabetes. Beta-adrenergic blockade may prevent the appearance of signs of hypoglycaemia (tachycardia).
Digitalis glycosides and/or diuretics should be considered for patients with a previous history of heart failure or in patients known to have a poor cardiac reserve. Digitalis glycosides in association with beta-blockers may increase auriculo-ventricular conduction time.
As with all beta-blockers particular caution is called for when metoprolol is administered together with prazosin for the first time as the co-administration of metoprolol and prazosin may produce a first dose hypotensive effect.
Like all beta-blockers, metoprolol should not be given in combination with calcium channel blockers i.e. verapamil and to a lesser extent diltiazem since this may cause bradycardia, hypotension, heart failure and asystole and may increase auriculo-ventricular conduction time. However, combinations of antihypertensive drugs may often be used with benefit to improve control of hypertension. Calcium blockers of the verapamil type should not be administered intravenously to patients receiving beta blockers (see section 4.3).
Calcium channel blockers (such as dihydropyridine derivatives e.g. nifedipine) should not be given in combination with metoprolol because of the increased risk of hypotension and heart failure. In patients with latent cardiac insufficiency, treatment with beta-blocking agents may lead to cardiac failure. Beta-blockers used in conjunction with clonidine increase the risk of “rebound hypertension”. If combination treatment with clonidine is to be discontinued, metoprolol should be withdrawn several days before clonidine.
The effects of metoprolol and other antihypertensive drugs on blood pressure are usually additive, and care should be taken to avoid hypotension.
NSAIDs (especially indometacin) may reduce the antihypertensive effects of beta-blockers possibly by inhibiting renal prostaglandin synthesis and/or causing sodium and fluid retention.
Care should also be taken when beta-blockers are given in combination with sympathetic ganglion blocking agents, other beta-blockers (ieeye drops) or MAO inhibitors. Concomitant administration of tricyclic antidepressants, barbiturates and phenothiazines as well as other antihypertensive agents may increase the blood pressure lowering effect.
Class 1 anti-arrhythmic drugs, e.g. disopyramide, quinidine and amiodarone may have potentiating effects on atrial-conduction time and induce negative inotropic effect. Concurrent use of propafenone may result in significant increases in plasma concentrations and half-life of metoprolol. Plasma propafenone concentrations are unaffected. Dosage reduction of metoprolol may be necessary.
During concomitant ingestion of alcohol and metoprolol the concentration of blood alcohol may reach higher levels and may decrease more slowly. The concomitant ingestion of alcohol may enhance hypotensive effects.
The administration of adrenaline (epinephrine) or noradrenaline (norepinephrine) to patients undergoing beta-blockade can result in an increase in blood pressure and bradycardia, although this is less likely to occur with beta₁-selective drugs. As beta-blockers may affect the peripheral circulation, care should be exercised when drugs with similar activity egergotamine are given concurrently. Concurrent use of moxisylyte may result in possible severe postural hypotension.
The effect of adrenaline (epinephrine) in the treatment of anaphylactic reactions may be weakened in patients receiving beta blockers (see also section 4.4).
Metoprolol will antagonise the beta₁-effects of sympathomimetic agents but should have little influence on the bronchodilator effects of beta₂-agonists at normal therapeutic doses.
Enzyme inducing agents (egrifampicin) may reduce plasma concentrations of metoprolol, whereas enzyme inhibitors (eg cimetidine, hydralazine and alcohol), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as paroxetine, fluoxetine and sertraline, diphenhydramine, hydroxychloroquine, celecoxib, terbinafine may increase plasma concentrations of hepatically metabolised beta-blockers.
Metoprolol may impair the elimination of lidocaine.
Prostaglandin synthetase inhibiting drugs may decrease the hypotensive effects of beta-blockers.
Cocaine may inhibit the therapeutic effects of beta-blockers and increase the risk of hypertension, excessive bradycardia, and possibly heart block.
Concurrent use of oestrogens may decrease the antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers because oestrogen-induced fluid retention may lead to increased blood pressure.
Concurrent use of xanthines, especially aminophylline or theophylline, may result in mutual inhibition of therapeutic effects. Xanthine clearance may also be decreased especially in patients with increased theophylline clearance induced by smoking. Concurrent use requires careful monitoring.
Concurrent use of aldesleukin may result in an enhanced hypotensive effect.
Concurrent use of alprostadil may result in an enhanced hypotensive effect.
There is an increased risk of bradycardia following concomitant use of mefloquine with metoprolol.
Concomitant use with anxiolytics and hypnotics may result in an enhanced hypotensive effect.
Concomitant use with corticosteroids may result in antagonism of the hypotensive effect.
The manufacturer of tropisetron advises caution in concomitant administration due to the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.

4.6 Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

It is recommended that metoprolol should not be administered during pregnancy or lactation unless it is considered that the benefit outweighs the possible risk to the foetus/infant. Should therapy with metoprolol be employed, special attention should be paid to the foetus, neonate and breast fed infant for any undesirable effects such as slowing of the heart rate.

Metoprolol has, however, been used in pregnancy associated hypertension under close supervision after 20 weeks gestation. Although the drug crosses the placental barrier and is present in cord blood no evidence of foetal abnormalities has been reported. However, there is an increased risk of cardiac and pulmonary complications in the neonate in the postnatal period. Beta blockers reduce placental perfusion and may cause foetal death and premature birth. Intrauterine growth retardation has been observed after long-time treatment of pregnant women with mild to moderate hypertension. Beta blockers have been reported to cause bradycardia in the foetus and the newborn child, there are also reports of hypoglycaemia and hypotension in newborn children.

Animal experiments have shown neither teratogenic potential nor other adverse events on the embryo and/or foetus relevant to the safety assessment of the product.

Treatment with metoprolol should be discontinued 48-72 hours before the calculated birth date. If this is not possible, the newborn child should be monitored for 24-48 hours post partum for signs and symptoms of beta blockade (e.g. cardiac and pulmonary complications).

Lactation

The concentration of metoprolol in breast milk is approximately three times higher than the one in the mother’s plasma. Even though the risk of adverse effects in the breastfeeding baby would appear to be low after administration of therapeutic doses of the medicinal product (except in individuals with poor metabolic capacity) breastfeeding babies should be monitored for signs of beta blockade.

4.7 Effects on ability to drive and use machines

As with all beta-blockers, metoprolol may affect patients’ ability to drive and operate machinery. It should be taken into account that occasionally dizziness or fatigue may occur. Patients should be warned accordingly. These effects may possibly be enhanced in case of concomitant ingestion of alcohol or after changing to another medicinal product.

4.8 Undesirable effects

Frequency estimates: very common ≥10%; common ≥ 1% and <10%; uncommon ≥ 0.1% and <1%; rare ≥0.01% and <0.1%; very rare < 0.01%.

Blood and the lymphatic system disorders

Very rare: thrombocytopenia

Psychiatric disorders

Rare: depression, nightmares

Very rare: personality disorder, hallucinations

Nervous system disorders

Common: dizziness, headache

Rare: alertness decreased, somnolence or insomnia, paraesthesia

Eye disorders

Very rare: visual disturbance (eg. blurred vision), dry eyes and/or eye irritation

Ear and labyrinth disorders

Very rare: tinnitus, and, in doses exceeding those recommended, “hearing disorders (eg. hypoacusis or deafness)

Cardiac disorders

Common: bradycardia

Rare: heart failure, cardiac arrhythmias, palpitation

Very rare: cardiac conduction disorders, precordial pain

Not Known: increase in existing intermittent claudication

Vascular disorders

Common: orthostatic hypotension (occasionally with syncope)

Rare: oedema, Raynaud’s phenomenon

Very rare: gangrene in patients with pre-existing severe peripheral circulatory disorders

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Common: exertional dyspnoea

Rare: bronchospasm (which may occur in patients without a history of obstructive lung disease)

Very rare: rhinitis

Gastrointestinal disorders

Common: nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain

Rare: diarrhoea or constipation

Very rare: dry mouth

Not known: retroperitoneal fibrosis (relationship to Metoprolol has not been definitely established), Beta-blockers may mask the symptoms of thyrotoxicosis or hypoglycaemia.

Hepatobiliary Disorders

Not known: hepatitis

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Rare: skin rash (in the form of urticaria, psoriasiform and dystrophic skin lesions)

Very rare: photosensitivity, hyperhydrosis, alopecia, worsening of psoriasis

Not Known: occurrence of antinuclear antibodies (not associated with SLE)

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Rare: muscle cramps

Very rare: arthritis

Reproductive system and breast disorders

Very rare: disturbances of libido and potency

Not known: Peyronie’s disease (relationship to Metoprolol has not been definitely established)

General disorders and administration site conditions

Common: fatigue

Investigations

Very rare: weight increase, liver function test abnormal

Post Marketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been reported during post-approval use of metoprolol: confusional state, an increase in blood triglycerides and a decrease in high density lipoprotein (HDL). Because these reports are from a population of uncertain size and are subject to confounding factors, it is not possible to reliably estimate their frequency.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product.

4.9 Overdose

Poisoning due to an overdose of metoprolol may lead to severe hypotension, sinus bradycardia, atrioventricular block, heart failure, cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest, bronchospasm, impairment of consciousness, coma, nausea, vomiting, cyanosis, hypoglycaemia and, occasionally, hyperkalaemia. The first manifestations usually appear 20 minutes to two hours after drug ingestion.

After ingestion of an overdose or in case of hypersensitivity, the patient should be kept under close supervision and be treated in an intensive-care ward. Absorption of any drug material still present in the gastro-intestinal tract can be prevented by induction of vomiting, gastric lavage, administration of activated charcoal and a laxative. Artificial respiration may be required.

Bradycardia or extensive vagal reactions should be treated by administering atropine or methylatropine. Hypotension and shock should be treated with plasma/plasma substitutes and, if necessary, catecholamines. The beta-blocking effect can be counteracted by slow intravenous administration of isoprenaline hydrochloride, starting with a dose of approximately 5 micrograms/minute, or dobutamine, starting with a dose of 2.5micrograms/minute, until required effect has been obtained. In refractory cases isoprenaline can be combined with dopamine. If this does not produce the desired effect either, intravenous administration of 8-10mg glucagon may be considered. If required the injection should be repeated within one hour, to be followed – if required – by an i.v. infusion of glucagon at an administration rate of 1-3mg/hour. Administration of calcium ions, or the use of a cardiac pacemaker may also be considered. In patients intoxicated with hydrophilic beta-blocking agents haemodialysis or haemoperfusion may be considered.

Pharmacological properties

5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties

Pharmacotherapeutic category: Beta blocking agents, selective, ATC code: C07AB02.

Mechanism of action

Metoprolol succinate is a cardioselective beta-adrenergic blocking agent. It has a relatively greater blocking effect on beta₁-receptors (ie those mediating adrenergic stimulation of heart rate and contractility and release of free fatty acids from fat stores) than on beta₂-receptors, which are chiefly involved in broncho-and vasodilation.

5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties

Absorption

Metoprolol is readily and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.

Distribution

Peak plasma concentrations occur about 1½ hours after a single oral dose. Peak plasma-metoprolol concentrations at steady state with usual doses have been reported as 20-340ng/ml. Metoprolol is widely distributed, it crosses the blood-brain barrier, the placenta. It is slightly bound to plasma protein.

Biotransformation

It is extensively metabolised in the liver; O-dealkylation followed by oxidation and aliphatic hydroxylation. The rate of hydroxylation to alpha-hydroxymetoprolol is reported to be determined by genetic polymorphism; the half-life of metoprolol in fast hydroxylators is stated to be 3-4 hours, whereas in poor hydroxylators it is about 7 hours.

Elimination

The metabolites are excreted in the urine together with only small amounts of unchanged metoprolol. Metoprolol is excreted in breast milk.

Severe angina pectoris

Intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (ISA) may be a disadvantage for the patient with severe angina pectoris. There are however no indications that the efficacy in hypertensives is influenced by this characteristic. In exceptional cases, however, very high dosages can cause the ISA to predominate over the beta-adrenergic blocking capacity so that restriction of the maximum dosage is indicated.

Respiratory impairment

It has not been proven that beta-blockers with ISA give a lower risk for bronchospasm or enhancement of pre-existing bronchospastic complaints.

5.3 Preclinical safety data

There are no pre-clinical data of relevance to the prescriber which are additional to that already included in other sections of the SPC.

Pharmaceutical particulars

6.1 List of excipients

Also contains: Silica, colloidal anhydrous, Lactose monohydrate, Magnesium stearate, Maize starch

Cellulose, microcrystalline, Povidone.

6.2 Incompatibilities

Not applicable.

6.3 Shelf life

Years

6.4 Special precautions for storage

Store below 25°C in a dry place.

Protect from light.

6.5 Nature and contents of container

Blister pack

6.6 Special precautions for disposal and other handling

No special requirements for disposal.

Any unused medicinal product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.

Manufactured BY:
Taj Pharmaceuticals LTD.
at: Plot. No. 220, Mahagujarat
Industrial Estate, At & Post-Moraiya,
Tal-Sanand, Dist- Ahmedabad Gujarat (India).

Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets USP 25mg (Taj Pharma)

Patient Information Leaflet

Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine because it contains important information for you.

Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.
If you have any further questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their signs of illness are the same as yours.
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. See section 4.

What is in this leaflet

What Metoprolol succinate is and what it is used for
What you need to know before you take Metoprolol succinate
How to take Metoprolol succinate
Possible side effects
How to store Metoprolol succinate
Contents of the pack and other information

What Metoprolol succinate is and what it is used for

Metoprolol succinate contains metoprolol succinate, which belongs to a group of medicines called beta-blockers. Metoprolol succinate reduces the effect of the stress hormones on the heart in connection with physical and mental exertion. This results in the heart beating slower (pulse rate is reduced).

It is used to treat:

high blood pressure
angina pectoris (pain in the chest caused by lack of oxygen in the heart)
irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia).

in adults.

It is used to prevent:

migraine
heart damage, heart death or further heart attacks after a heart attack.

in adults.

What you need to know before you take Metoprolol succinate

Do not take Metoprolol succinate if you:

are allergic to metoprolol succinate, other beta-blockers or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6).
have heart conduction problems (serious

AV-block or sinoatrial block)

suffer from sick sinus syndrome
have untreated heart failure, are receiving treatment to increase heart contractions or are in shock caused by heart problems
suffer from severely blocked blood vessels, including blood circulation problems (which may cause your fingers and toes to tingle or turn pale or blue)
have a slow heart rate (less than 50 beats/ min)
have low blood pressure
suffer from increased acidity of the blood (metabolic acidosis)
have severe asthma or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
are receiving other blood pressure lowering medicines such as verapamil and diltiazam by intravenous injection. See also “Other medicines and Metoprolol succinate”
are using antiarrrhythmics such as disopyramide. See also “Other medicines and Metoprolol succinate”
have untreated high blood pressure due to tumour of the adrenal medulla (phaechromocytoma).

Warnings and precautions

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking

Metoprolol succinate if you:

have asthma
have diabetes mellitus (low blood sugar levels may be hidden by this medicine)
have high blood pressure due to tumour of the adrenal medulla (treated phaeochromocytoma)
are having treatment to reduce allergic reactions. Metoprolol succinate may increase your hypersensitivity to the substances you are allergic to and increase the severity of allergic reactions
have an overactive thyroid, (symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, tremor, anxiety, increased appetite or weight loss may be hidden by this medicine)
have or have suffered from skin rashes called psoriasis
suffer from blood circulation problems (in the fingers, toes, arms and legs)
suffer from a heart conduction disorder (AV block)
have a type of chest pain called Prinzmetal’s angina.
have heart failure and one of the following:
had a heart attack or angina attack in the last 28 days
reduced kidney or liver function
are under 40 years old or over 80 years old
diseases of the heart valves
enlarged heart muscle
had heart surgery in the last 4 months
have unstable heart failure .

If are going to have an anaesthetic, please tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking Metoprolol succinate.

Children and adolescents

There is limited data on the use of metoprolol in children and adolescents, therefore the use of metoprolol is not recommended.

Other medicines and Metoprolol succinate Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines.

Metoprolol succinate tablets can affect how some other medicines work, and some medicines an also affect how metoprolol work. If Metoprolol succinate tablets are to be combined with the medicines listed below, you must consult your doctor before taking this medicine:

The following combination with metoprolol should be avoided:

Barbituric acid derivatives e.g. phenobarbital (used to treat epilepsy)
Propafenone, quinidine, verapamil, diltiazem, nifedipine and amlodipine (used to treat cardiovascular disease)

The following combinations with metoprolol may require dose adjustment:

Amiodarone, disopyramide (for irregular heart rhythm)
Indomethacin, sulindac, diclofenac and foctafenine (medicines used to reduce inflammation, fever and pain )
Fluoxetine, paroxetine and bupropion (medicines used to treat depression)
Thioridazine (antipsychotic)
Ritonavir (antiretroviral)
Diphenhydramine (antihistamine)
Hydroxychloroquine, mefloquine (used in malaria)
Terbinafine (for fungal infection of skin)
Cimetidine (for ulcers)
Digitalis glycosides such as digoxin (used in heart failure)
Epinephrine (medicine used in acute shock and severe allergic reaction)
Phenylpropanolamine (used to reduce swelling of the nasal mucosa)
Other beta blockers e.g. eye drops
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (used to treat depression and Parkinson’s disease)
Clonidine, guanfacin, moxonidine, methyldopa, rilmenidine (blood pressure lowering medicines)
Ergotamine (used in migraine)
Nitrates such as nitroglycerine (used in angina)
General anaesthetics
Insulin and oral antidiabetic (for reducing blood sugar level) medicines
Prazosine, tamsulosin, terazosine, doxazosine (alpha blockers, used to treat high blood pressure and benign prostatic hyperplasia)
Lidocaine (local anaesthetic)
Rifampicine (used to treat tuberculosis)
Antacids (used for stomach upsets).

Metoprolol succinate with alcohol

You are advised to avoid alcohol whilst taking this medicine. Alcohol may increase the blood pressure lowering effect of Metoprolol succinate.

Pregnancy, breast-feeding and fertility Metoprolol succinate is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.

Driving and using machines

Metoprolol succinate may make you feel tired and dizzy. Make sure you are not affected before you drive or operate machinery.

How to take Metoprolol succinate

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

Metoprolol succinate should be taken without food

High blood pressure:

Initially 100mg daily

Angina pectoris:

Usually 50-100mg Twice daily.

Irregular heart beats:

100-200mg daily.

Preventive therapy after a heart attack:

The usual maintenance done is 100mg twice daily.

Prevention of migraine:

50-100mg twice daily.

If you take more Metoprolol succinate than you should

If you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose, contact your nearest casualty department or tell your doctor or pharmacist at once. Depending on the extent of the overdose, this can lead to excessive reduction in blood pressure and a decrease in heart rate. As a consequence of the failure of heart function, this can even lead to cardiac arrest, heart muscle weakness and shock. Other symptoms include problems in breathing, constriction of the muscles in the respiratory tract, vomiting, disturbances of consciousness and even occasionally generalised seizures.

If you forget to take Metoprolol succinate

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Then go on as before. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

If you stop taking Metoprolol succinate

Do not suddenly stop taking Metoprolol succinate as this may cause worsening of heart failure and increase the risk of heart attack. Only change the dose or stop the treatment in consultation with your doctor.

If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

4. Possible side effect

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Stop treatment and contact a doctor at once if you have:

an allergic reaction such as itchy skin rash, flushing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.

This is a very serious but rare side effect. You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalisation.

Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following side effects or notice any other effects not listed:

Very common (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

feeling faint on standing due to low blood pressure, tiredness.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

slow heart rate,
difficulties in maintaining balance (very rare with fainting),
cold hands and feet,
palpitation,
dizziness,
headache,
feeling sick,
diarrhoea,
constipation,
stomach pain,
shortness of breath with strenuous physical activity.

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

chest pain,
weight gain,
depression
concentration problems
inability to sleep (insomnia)
drowsinees
nightmares
tingling in the skin,
temporary worsening of symptoms of heart failure
disturbances in the conduction of the heart
spasmodic contraction of the smooth muscle of the bronchi (causing shortness of breath),
vomiting
rashes
increased sweating
fluid retention
muscle cramps

Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):

worsening of diabetes,
nervousness,
anxiety,
visual disturbances,
dry or irritated eyes,
conjunctivitis,
impotence, other sexual dysfunctions,
Peyronie’s syndrome (bending of penis on erection),
irregular heart beat,
heart conduction disturbances,
dry mouth,
runny nose,
hair loss,
changes in liver function tests.

Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people):

changes in blood cells,

forgetfulness, memory impairment
confusion,
hallucinations,
personality changes e.g. mood changes,
ringing in the ears (tinnitus),
hearing problems,
taste changes,
inflammation of the liver (hepatitis),
sensitivity to light,
worsening or new psoriasis, psoriasis like changes
muscle weakness,
joint pain,
tissue death in patients with severe circulation disturbances.

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Metoprolol succinate

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the blister, carton and bottle label after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

Store in the original package in order to protect from light.

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Metoprolol succinate contains

The active substance is metoprolol succinate. Each film-coated tablet contains 12.5mg/ 25mg/ 50mg/ of metoprolol succinate.
The other ingredients are:

Tablet core: Cellulose microcrystalline, maize starch, sodium starch glycolate, silica colloidal anhydrous, sodium laurilsulfate, talc, magnesium stearate.

Pack: Available in Blister Pack.

Manufactured BY:
Taj Pharmaceuticals LTD.
at: Plot. No. 220, Mahagujarat.
Industrial Estate, At & Post-Moraiya,
Tal-Sanand, Dist- Ahmedabad Gujarat (India).