Metocard T 25

METOCARD T 25

METOCARD T 25 is a medicine manufactured by Torrent Pharma (FORZA) that combines two active ingredients to treat hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: METOCARD T 25
  • Common Name: Telmisartan and Metoprolol Tablets

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredients: Each tablet contains Telmisartan 40 mg and Metoprolol 25 mg.
  • Telmisartan is an Angiotensin II receptor antagonist that works by blocking the angiotensin II receptor, leading to relaxation and widening of blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure.
  • Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that reduces blood pressure by slowing down the heart rate and making the heart more efficient at pumping blood, allowing blood to flow more smoothly.

• Uses:

  • Treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • May also be used to lower the risk of future heart attacks and strokes.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • The recommended starting dose is typically one METOCARD T 25 tablet once daily.
  • The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food.
  • Do not chew, bite, crush, or break the tablet.
  • Dosage adjustments may be made by a doctor based on blood pressure response after 2 to 4 weeks.
  • It is important to continue taking the medication regularly as prescribed, even if you feel well, and not to stop suddenly without consulting a doctor.

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, stomach pain, slow heart rate, cold extremities, increased potassium level in blood, decreased blood pressure, orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing), breathlessness, tiredness, feeling sleepy.
  • Most common side effects usually do not require medical attention and resolve over time.
  • Serious Side Effects: Symptoms of an allergic reaction (skin rash, itching, flushing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty in breathing or swallowing). Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

• Precautions:

  • Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase dizziness and lower blood pressure further.
  • May cause dizziness and tiredness, so drive or operate heavy machinery only if you are alert.
  • Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential fetal toxicity.
  • Not recommended for breastfeeding women as metoprolol may pass into breast milk.
  • Inform your doctor about any kidney or liver diseases, heart problems, diabetes, asthma, or other pre-existing medical conditions.
  • Not recommended for children below 18 years of age.
  • Do not stop taking the medication suddenly as it can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure, chest pain, or heart attack.

• Storage:

  • Store in a cool and dry place, below 30°C.
  • Protect from light and moisture.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children.
  • Discard the medicine if it reaches its expiry date.

Here are the frequently asked questions about METOCARD T 25 by TORRENT PHARMA (FORZA), along with their concise answers:

What is METOCARD T 25 used for?

METOCARD T 25 is a combination medicine used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). By lowering blood pressure, it helps prevent future heart attacks and strokes. Early treatment with this medicine can also improve the chances of survival in patients who have experienced heart attacks.

How does METOCARD T 25 work?

METOCARD T 25 contains two active ingredients: Telmisartan and Metoprolol Succinate. Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist that works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels. This action relaxes and widens the blood vessels. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that reduces blood pressure by slowing down the heart rate and allowing the blood to flow more smoothly. Together, these components reduce the strain on the heart and lower blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for METOCARD T 25?

The recommended starting dose for METOCARD T 25 (Telmisartan 40mg/Metoprolol 25mg) is one tablet once daily. The dosage may be adjusted by your doctor based on your blood pressure goals. If blood pressure is not adequately controlled after 2 to 4 weeks, a higher strength tablet like METOCARD T 50 (Telmisartan 40mg/Metoprolol 50mg) might be prescribed. It should preferably be administered with or immediately following meals, swallowed whole with water, and not cut, crushed, or chewed.

What are the possible side effects of METOCARD T 25?

Common side effects of METOCARD T 25 include headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, stomach pain, and a slow heart rate. Most of these side effects are usually mild and tend to resolve over time. If any side effects persist or worsen, it is important to consult your doctor.

Is METOCARD T 25 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

METOCARD T 25 is considered unsafe during pregnancy, as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system (like Telmisartan) can cause injury and death to the developing fetus, especially during the second and third trimesters. It is not recommended during breastfeeding, as metoprolol may pass into breast milk, although limited human data suggests it might not represent a significant risk to the baby in some cases. Always consult your doctor for advice if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can METOCARD T 25 be taken with other medications?

METOCARD T 25 can interact with several other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Notable interactions include:

• Other blood pressure-lowering medicines: Can lead to an additive effect and increased risk of hypotension.
• Digoxin: Can increase digoxin peak plasma concentrations.
• Lithium: May cause reversible increases in serum lithium concentrations and toxicity.
• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect.
• Catecholamine-depleting drugs (e.g., reserpine, MAO inhibitors): May have an additive effect with beta-blockers, leading to hypotension or marked bradycardia.
• CYP2D6 Inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, fluoxetine, paroxetine): Can increase metoprolol concentration.
• Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., verapamil, diltiazem): Can slow atrioventricular conduction and decrease heart rate, increasing the risk of bradycardia.
• Anaesthetic drugs: May attenuate reflex tachycardia and increase the risk of hypotension.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may cause increased dizziness and a drop in blood pressure.

What precautions should be taken while taking METOCARD T 25?

• Do not stop suddenly: Abruptly stopping METOCARD T 25 can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure, chest pain, or a heart attack. Your doctor will likely recommend a gradual reduction in dosage if discontinuation is necessary.
• Dizziness: This medicine may cause dizziness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position to reduce the risk of dizziness.
• Liver/Kidney problems: Use with caution in patients with liver disease and kidney disease; dose adjustments may be needed.
• Diabetes: Metoprolol can mask the symptoms of low blood sugar, such as a rapid heartbeat. Monitor blood sugar levels regularly.
• Other conditions: Inform your doctor if you have asthma, COPD, severe heart failure, very slow heart rate, or other heart conditions.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of METOCARD T 25, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should METOCARD T 25 be stored?

METOCARD T 25 should be stored in a cool and dry place, below 30°C, and protected from light and moisture. Keep it out of sight and reach of children.