General Drug Information and Indications

Beta-1 selective adrenergic blocker for cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure in dogs and cats. Cardioselective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist (metoprolol tartrate). Mechanism: competitive blockade of beta-1 receptors → reduced heart rate, contractility, and AV nodal conduction. Beta-1 selectivity is dose-dependent. Short-to-intermediate duration of action. Hepatically metabolized via CYP2D6. Key information Metoprolol — cardioselective beta-blocker. Do not abruptly discontinue. Monitor heart rate.

How to Give this Medication

Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. Do not crush extended-release formulations. Administer at consistent times. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Never give a double dose. Never abruptly stop.

Side Effects

Bradycardia, AV block, hypotension. Lethargy, exercise intolerance. GI: nausea, vomiting. Bronchospasm (even cardioselective at high doses). Masking of hypoglycemia. Rebound tachycardia with abrupt discontinuation.

Precautions

For animals Avoid in AV block, decompensated CHF, bradycardia. Do not abruptly discontinue. Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment. Use with caution in hepatic impairment. For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Beta-blocker — dangerous to children (bradycardia). Store securely. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Beta-blocker overdose causes bradycardia and cardiovascular collapse.

Metoprol Tar Tab dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
METOPROL TAR TAB 25MG25 MGTablet1Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Antiarrhythmics for Use in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-cardiovascular-system/antiarrhythmics-for-use-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)