Q. How to stop taking tablet Metoprolol safely without cardiac side effects?

Hello doctor,

I am a 49-year-old male. My height is 6'1", and my weight is 309 lbs. I have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. I have had atrial fibrillation in the past, but that was related to alcohol withdrawal. I quit alcohol four years ago. I have also started to eat healthy, trying to exercise, and lead a healthy lifestyle. I have lost 9 lbs in the last two weeks. In the routine cardiac examination of the previous two months, I do not have atrial fibrillation. I have occasional palpitations. I have also had an ultrasound of my heart, and the findings were normal. I had an electrocardiogram that showed a left atrium issue that was related to sleep apnea. Almost two weeks ago, I had a follow-up with my cardiologist, I ended up seeing a nurse practitioner, and she prescribed me Metoprolol.

My problem is Metoprolol. This medication has collapsed my blood pressure. After two days of taking Metoprolol, I was admitted to the hospital with a blood pressure reading of 196/94 mmHg and a heart rate of 110 bpm. Now, I am dealing with severe panic attacks, bouts of depression, brain fog, lack of enthusiasm, confusion, stomach issues, insomnia, and nightmares. I am crying for no reason and feel like I am losing my mind.

Please advise on how to stop taking Metoprolol safely.

Hello doctor,

Thanks for the reply.

Should I take half a pill twice daily or a half pill once daily?

Thanks.

Hello doctor,

Thank you so much for the reply.

I am feeling good now.

Thanks again.

Hello doctor,

Thanks for the reply.

I am on the second day of tapering tablet Metoprolol to half and taking one tablet of Lisinopril. Now my BP has been greatly improved. But I feel like I lack stamina, and my heart rate is raised. I can feel my heart beating faster. I did not have that before taking the Metoprolol. Is this normal?

Thanks.

Hello doctor,

Thanks for the reply.

My BP is doing great, but my heart rate increases fast even while doing a small task. I never had that before the Metoprolol. Is this common during tapering the Metoprolol?

Thanks.