Approximately 30 million adults in the United States utilize beta-blockers, widely prescribed medications. February, designated as American Heart Month, underscores the significance of beta-blockers as a commonly prescribed drug class. These medications are instrumental in the management of heart conditions, providing essential support for individuals striving to improve heart health.
What are beta-blockers?
Beta-blockers are medications that slow down the heart and reduce its pumping force. There are two types: cardio-selective, which specifically target the heart, and non-selective. The selective ones focus on a receptor in the heart, making it beat less forcefully and helping to lower blood pressure.
What are beta-blockers used for?
Due to the widespread distribution of beta-receptors in various body locations, beta-blockers have the capacity to address a broad spectrum of issues and medical conditions including:
Tachycardia
Hypertension
Myocardial infarction
Congestive heart failure
Cardiac arrhythmias
Coronary artery disease
Hyperthyroidism
Glaucoma
Migraine prophylaxis
What are the side effects of beta-blockers?
Common side effects of beta-blockers include slow heart rate, low blood pressure, fatigue, dizziness, nausea, constipation, sexual and erectile dysfunction. Some people with asthma may experience breathing difficulties, and those with Raynaud Syndrome might have worsened symptoms. Beta-blockers can also raise blood sugar levels and hide signs of low blood sugar. There's a potential risk of heart block, especially in people with existing heart issues.
What are examples of beta-blockers?
The top 5 beta-blockers prescribed in 2023 included:
Metoprolol succinate (Toprol XL)
Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor)
Carvedilol (Coreg)
Atenolol (Tenormin)
Propranolol (Inderal LA)
According to Definitive Healthcare Atlas Prescription Claims dataset, 36.9% of all dispensed beta- blocker prescriptions, metoprolol succinate stands out as the most commonly prescribed medication in this category.
What is the difference between metoprolol succinate and metoprolol tartrate?
Although similar in name, there are some key differences between metoprolol succinate and metoprolol tartrate:
Generic Name | Metoprolol succinate | Metoprolol tartrate |
Brand Name | Toprol XL | Lopressor |
Available Dosage | 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg | 25 mg, 37.5 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg |
Dosage Forms | Tablets, capsules | Tablets |
Indications | Hypertension, angina pectoris, heart failure | Hypertension, angina pectoris, myocardial infarction |
Duration of action | Long-acting | Short-acting |
How to take | Once a day with or without food | Two times a day with food |
Can tablet be cut in half? | No | Yes |
Is there a vegan metoprolol?
Our team has identified ONE animal-free metoprolol tartrate tablet manufactured by Rising Pharma, whereas we've discovered SEVEN animal-free metoprolol succinate tablets outlined in the table below:
Drug Name | Manufacturer | Animal-Free? |
Metoprolol Succinate Film Coated Tablet, Extended Release | Ascend | Yes |
Metoprolol Succinate Tablet, Extended Release | Ingenus | Yes |
Metoprolol Succinate Tablet, Extended Release | Slate Run | Yes |
Metoprolol Succinate Tablet, Extended Release | AvKare | Yes |
Metoprolol Succinate Film Coated Tablet, Extended Release | Camber | Yes |
Metoprolol Succinate Tablet, Extended Release | Cipla | Yes |
Metoprolol Succinate Tablet, Extended Release | Teva | Unknown |
Conclusion
In conclusion, beta-blockers are vital medications for managing heart conditions, benefiting around 30 million adults in the US. Recognizing their importance during American Heart Month is crucial. Understanding their uses, side effects, and differences between types is key for informed decision-making. Efforts to provide animal-free options show progress in catering to diverse needs for specific patient populations (e.g. vegans, religious beliefs, Alpha-gal Syndrome). By staying informed, we can work towards better heart health outcomes.
Co-author: Ngan (Anna) Nguyen
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product. The information provided in this post is accurate and up to date as of the date it was written. However, please note that circumstances and facts may change over time, and new information may become available that could alter the accuracy or relevance of the content. We encourage readers to verify and cross-reference any information provided here with trusted sources or consult relevant professionals for the most current and accurate updates.
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