Toprol-XL (metoprolol succinate) is a beta-blocker that affects the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Toprol-XL is used to treat angina (chest pain) and hypertension (high blood pressure).

Toprol-XL is also used to lower your risk of death or needing to be hospitalized for heart failure.

You should not use Toprol-XL if you have a severe heart block (greater than first degree), sick sinus syndrome without a pacemaker, severe circulation problems, severe heart failure, a history of slow heart beats that caused fainting, or if you are allergic to Toprol-XL or metoprolol.

Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking before using Toprol-XL, especially any calcium channel blockers (including diltiazem, verapamil, and others).

Take Toprol-XL exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.

Toprol-XL should be taken with a meal or just after a meal.

Take the medicine at the same time each day.

Swallow the extended release tablet whole and do not crush or chew the tablet.

A Toprol XL tablet can be divided in half if your doctor has told you to do so. Swallow the half-tablet whole, without chewing or crushing.

You will need frequent medical tests, and your blood pressure will need to be checked often.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using metoprolol.

You should not stop using Toprol-XL suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.

If you have high blood pressure, keep using Toprol-XL even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use metoprolol for the rest of your life.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure this medicine is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.

Metoprolol may worsen the symptoms of heart failure in some patients. Check with your doctor right away if you are having chest pain or discomfort, dilated neck veins, extreme fatigue, irregular breathing or heartbeat, shortness of breath, swelling of the face, fingers, feet, or lower legs, or weight gain.

Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor. Your doctor may want you to gradually reduce the amount you are taking before stopping it completely. Some conditions may become worse when the medicine is stopped suddenly, which can be dangerous.

This medicine may cause changes in blood sugar levels. Also, this medicine may cover up the symptoms of low blood sugar, such as a rapid pulse rate. Check with your doctor if you notice a change in your normal symptoms or a change in the results of your blood or urine sugar tests.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Toprol-XL: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have:

Very slow heartbeat, excessive tiredness, or chest pain;

A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

Shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, rapid weight gain; or

Cold feeling in your hands and feet.

Common Toprol-XL side effects may include:

Dizziness, tired feeling;

Depression, confusion, memory problems;

Nightmares, trouble sleeping;

Diarrhea; 

Mild itching or rash.

What if I miss a dose?

Show If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Show Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Contact your doctor right away if your symptoms worsen. Check your blood pressure and pulse rate regularly. Ask your health care professional what your blood pressure and pulse rate should be, and when you should contact them.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Show Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date