Beta blocking agents, selective
Metoprolol Tartrate
The FDA lists this product in 60 strengths and forms.
Indications
Myocardial Infarction Metoprolol Tartrate Injection, USP is indicated in the treatment of hemodynamically stable patients with definite or suspected acute myocardial infarction to reduce cardiovascular mortality when used in conjunction with oral metoprolol maintenance therapy. Treatment with intravenous metoprolol tartrate can be initiated as soon as the patient's clinical condition allows (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION , CONTRA-INDICATIONS , and WARNINGS ).
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to metoprolol tartrate and related derivatives, or to any of the excipients; hypersensitivity to other beta-blockers (cross sensitivity between beta-blockers can occur). Myocardial Infarction Metoprolol Tartrate Injection, USP is contraindicated in patients with a heart rate <45 beats/min; second- and third-degree heart block; significant first-degree heart block (P-R interval ≥0.24 sec); systolic blood pressure <100 mmHg; or moderate-to-severe cardiac failure (see WARNINGS ).
Warnings and precautions
Heart Failure Beta blockers, like metoprolol tartrate, can cause depression of myocardial contractility and may precipitate heart failure and cardiogenic shock. If signs or symptoms of heart failure develop, treat the patient according to recommended guidelines. It may be necessary to lower the dose of metoprolol tartrate or to discontinue it. Ischemic Heart Disease Do not abruptly discontinue metoprolol tartrate therapy in patients with coronary artery disease.
Several exacerbation of angina, myocardial infarction and ventricular arrhythmias have been reported in patients with coronary artery disease following the abrupt discontinuation of therapy with beta-blockers. When discontinuing chronically administered metoprolol tartrate, particularly in patients with coronary artery disease, the dosage should be gradually reduced over a period of 1-2 weeks and the patient should be carefully monitored.
If angina markedly worsens or acute coronary insufficiency develops, metoprolol tartrate administration should be reinstated promptly, at least temporarily, and other measures appropriate for the management of unstable angina should be taken. Patients should be warned against interruption or discontinuation of therapy without the physician's advice. Because coronary artery disease is common and may be unrecognized, it may be prudent not to discontinue metoprolol tartrate therapy abruptly even in patients treated only for hypertension.



