Lopressor Flashcards

Lopressor Overview

• Lopressor is a medication with the generic name metoprolol.
• It falls under the classes of antianginals and antihypertensives.

Mechanism of Action

• Primarily blocks stimulation of beta1-adrenergic receptors located in the myocardium.
• Generally does not influence beta2-adrenergic receptor sites, which are relevant to pulmonary and vascular functions.
• Therapeutic effects include:
  • Reduced blood pressure (BP) and heart rate.
  • Fewer occurrences of angina pectoris.
  • Lower cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization rates in heart failure patients.

Side Effects

• Common side effects consist of:
  • Fatigue, weakness, anxiety, and depression.
  • Dizziness, drowsiness, and insomnia.
  • Memory loss and mental status changes.
  • Peripheral effects like blurred vision, stuffy nose, bronchospasm, and wheezing.
• Gastrointestinal disturbances including constipation, diarrhea, and dry mouth.
• Hormonal effects such as erectile dysfunction and decreased libido.
• Other notable side effects include hypersensitivity reactions, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and drug-induced lupus syndrome.

Contraindications

• Should not be used in cases of:
  • Uncompensated heart failure.
  • Pulmonary edema or cardiogenic shock.
  • Bradycardia, heart block, or sick sinus syndrome.

Adverse Effects

• Significant adverse effects can include:
  • Bradycardia and worsening heart failure.
  • Risk of pulmonary edema, which requires careful monitoring.

Nursing Implications

• Health professionals should take the patient's apical pulse before administering the medication.
• Administration should be withheld if the heart rate is below a specified threshold.