Definition

1. Noun:
   • A beta-blocker medication: Metoprolol is a prescription drug belonging to the class of beta-adrenergic blocking agents (beta-blockers). It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in the body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This effect slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and reduces strain on the heart.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor prescribed metoprolol to manage her high blood pressure.
  • After his heart attack, he was started on a regimen of metoprolol.
  • The cardiologist adjusted the dosage of metoprolol to better control the patient's angina.

Advanced Usage

• "Metoprolol succinate" and "Metoprolol tartrate": These refer to different salt forms of the drug, which affect how it is released in the body. Metoprolol succinate is typically a long-acting, extended-release formulation, while metoprolol tartrate is usually an immediate-release formulation.
  • The extended-release metoprolol succinate is taken once daily.

Variants and Related Words

• Beta-blocker (beta-adrenergic blocking agent) (n): The class of drugs to which metoprolol belongs.

  • Other common beta-blockers include atenolol and propranolol.

• Lopressor, Toprol-XL (n): Common brand names for metoprolol.

  • Lopressor is often the brand name for metoprolol tartrate.

Synonyms

• Beta-adrenergic antagonist: A more technical term for a beta-blocker.

Notes on Meaning

Metoprolol is specifically used to treat several cardiovascular conditions. Its primary meanings are tied to its therapeutic uses: 1. Treatment of Hypertension: It is used to lower high blood pressure. 2. Management of Angina Pectoris: It helps prevent chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. 3. Control of Cardiac Arrhythmias: It helps stabilize irregular heartbeats. 4. Secondary Prevention after Myocardial Infarction: It is used following a heart attack to improve survival and prevent future events.

It is important to note that "metoprolol" refers strictly to the pharmaceutical compound. Descriptions of its effects (e.g., slowing the heart rate) are explanations of its function, not separate definitions of the word itself.

Noun

1. beta blocker (trade name Lopressor) used in treating hypertension and angina and arrhythmia and acute myocardial infarction; has adverse side effects (depression and exacerbation of congestive heart failure etc.)