Metoprolol (Lopressor) Flashcards

Study Notes

Metoprolol (Lopressor)

Drug Class: Antihypertensive, classified as a beta1 blocker to manage hypertension and related heart conditions.

Contraindications

Not suitable for use in patients with hypersensitivity, second- and third-degree heart block, cardiogenic shock, hypotension, acute heart failure, or sinus bradycardia.
Use with caution in patients with hepatic, renal, or thyroid dysfunction, asthma, peripheral vascular disease, or type 1 diabetes.

Drug and Lab Interactions

Drug interactions can lead to increased bradycardia with digitalis and hypotensive effects when combined with other antihypertensives, alcohol, or anesthetics.
NSAIDs may diminish the effectiveness of beta blockers.
Lab findings may show increased hepatic enzymes during therapy.

Side Effects

Common side effects include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, mental changes, drowsiness, headache, blurred vision, photosensitivity, nasal congestion, impotence, decreased libido, and depression.

Life-Threatening Adverse Reactions

Potentially serious reactions include complete heart block, bronchospasm, and agranulocytosis.
Other risks involve bradycardia, thrombocytopenia, hypoglycemia, and issues related to diabetes mellitus.

Assessment

Collect thorough medication history and note possible drug-drug interactions.
Monitor for abnormal blood pressure and bradycardia.
Check lab values for liver and renal function, as abnormalities can indicate complications related to the drug.

Nursing Diagnoses

Identify risks such as decreased cardiac output due to blood pressure variations or noncompliance with the drug regimen.
Address knowledge deficits regarding beta blockers and their effects.

Planning

Aim for patients to achieve decreased or normalized blood pressure.
Ensure patients commit to following their medication schedule and understand the importance of adherence.

Nursing Interventions

Regularly monitor vital signs, particularly blood pressure and pulse.
Track laboratory results, especially BUN, serum creatinine, AST, and LDH.
Educate patients on the importance of adherence, risks of abrupt discontinuation, and interactions with herbal supplements and OTC drugs.
Instruct patients on how to inform healthcare providers about their medication during trauma.
Teach patients and families about taking radial pulse and blood pressure readings at home.
Warn of potential dizziness and encourage gradual position changes to prevent orthostatic hypotension.
Advise reporting of side effects, such as slow pulse or hypoglycemic symptoms in diabetic patients.

Cultural Consideration

Inform African American patients that monotherapy with beta blockers is often less effective for hypertension; combining with diuretics may enhance efficacy.

Evaluation

Assess the effectiveness of therapy based on decreased blood pressure and the absence of side effects.
Confirm patient adherence to prescribed medication regimen.

Description

Test your knowledge of Metoprolol, a beta1 blocker used primarily as an antihypertensive. This quiz covers essential concepts such as drug class, contraindications, and drug interactions, helping you reinforce your understanding of this medication. Perfect for pharmacy students or healthcare professionals!