Metoprolol is not addictive, which is to say that it does not cause cravings and compulsive drug seeking, but it can cause withdrawal side effects when the consumer stops taking the medication suddenly. These metoprolol withdrawal side effects include angina, which is a type of chest pain, and an increased risk for heart attack (myocardial infarction), according to the FDA.
How Long Do Metoprolol Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
One study found metoprolol withdrawal symptoms occurred for two to eight days after stopping the blood pressure medication.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Stopping metoprolol can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as:
- Angina – a type of chest pain that feels like a squeezing, pressure, heaviness, tightness, or pain in the chest, which can spread to shoulders, arms, and neck.
- Myocardial infarction – also known as a heart attack, can cause tightness or pain in the chest, neck, back, or arms; fatigue, abnormal heartbeat, lightheadedness, and anxiety may occur.
Precautions
To reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms associated with metoprolol, reduce doses gradually over the course of a few weeks, as directed by a medical provider.
Treatment Options
Treatment for metoprolol withdrawal may include temporarily increasing the dose then gradually reducing the amount taken every day. A medical provider may replace metoprolol with another blood pressure medication when enough metoprolol has left the system.
Disclaimer: this article does not constitute or replace medical advice. If you have an emergency or a serious medical question, please contact a medical professional or call 911 immediately. To see our full medical disclaimer, visit our Terms of Use page.
