What is the brand name for Metoprolol?
The most common brand name for Metoprolol is Toprol-XL / Lopressor.
PTCE Top 200 · #6
Metoprolol
Toprol-XL / Lopressor
Metoprolol is the generic name for the brand-name drug Toprol-XL. It is a beta blocker (beta-1 selective) used to treat hypertension, HF, angina. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Metoprolol ranks #6 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Metoprolol |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Toprol-XL / Lopressor |
| Drug class | Beta blocker (beta-1 selective) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | hypertension, HF, angina |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Metoprolol used for?
Beta‑blocker used for hypertension and angina; certain forms are used in heart failure and post‑MI management.
What drug class is Metoprolol?
Metoprolol is a Beta blocker (beta-1 selective) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Metoprolol
- arrow_rightFatigue
- arrow_rightBradycardia
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightHypotension
- arrow_rightCold extremities
Major interactions
- arrow_rightNon‑DHP CCBs (verapamil/diltiazem) or digoxin ↑ bradycardia/heart block risk
- arrow_rightCYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine/paroxetine) ↑ metoprolol levels
- arrow_rightClonidine: abrupt clonidine withdrawal while on beta‑blocker can cause rebound hypertension
Is Metoprolol a controlled substance?
No. Metoprolol is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Metoprolol (PTCE mnemonic)
TOProl TOPs the heart rate — metopro-LOL is β1-selective. Slows pulse, masks hypoglycemia; never stop abruptly (rebound).
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Beta blockers end in -olol. Watch the salts: metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) is immediate-release, while metoprolol succinate (Toprol-XL) is extended-release — a common order-entry mix-up.
Metoprolol FAQ
What is Metoprolol used for?
Metoprolol is used to treat hypertension, HF, angina. Beta‑blocker used for hypertension and angina; certain forms are used in heart failure and post‑MI management.
What drug class is Metoprolol?
Metoprolol is a Beta blocker (beta-1 selective) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Metoprolol a controlled substance?
No. Metoprolol is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Metoprolol the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).