There
are many other causes of fatigue, including anemia, thyroid disorders, sleep problems, infections, depression, other medications, and the underlying cardiovascular condition for which metoprolol was prescribed.
If tiredness becomes significant enough to interfere with ordinary activities, discuss it with your healthcare professional. Do not independently reduce or skip doses in an attempt to restore energy.
2. Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Metoprolol can lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate, which may sometimes cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
This may be particularly noticeable when:
- Standing up quickly
- Getting out of bed
- Exercising
- Starting treatment
- Increasing the dose
- Taking other medications that also lower blood pressure
Some people experience what feels like a brief head rush after standing. Moving gradually from lying to sitting and then to standing may help reduce this sensation.
Be especially careful if dizziness creates a risk of falling.
Severe dizziness, fainting, or repeated episodes in which you feel as though you are about to faint deserve medical evaluation.
3. Slow Heart Rate
Slowing the heart rate is one of metoprolol’s intended effects. That is part of how the
medication reduces the heart’s workload.
However, in some people, the heart rate can become slower than is appropriate for their individual situation.
Possible symptoms associated with an excessively slow heart rate may include:
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Unusual fatigue
- Feeling faint
- Fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Reduced ability to exercise
A heart rate considered normal or appropriate varies between individuals. Athletes, for example, may naturally have lower resting heart rates than other adults.
