Metolar Am 25 Tablet

METOLAR AM 25 TABLET

METOLAR AM 25 TABLET, manufactured by Cipla Health Ltd., is a combination medication used for cardiovascular management.

Composition

Each tablet contains:

• Metoprolol succinate equivalent to Metoprolol tartrate 25 mg
• Amlodipine besilate equivalent to Amlodipine 5 mg

Uses

METOLAR AM 25 TABLET is primarily prescribed for the treatment of:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure): It helps relax blood vessels and reduce the heart rate, making it easier for the heart to pump blood, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Angina pectoris (heart-related chest pain): It helps improve blood flow to the heart and reduces myocardial oxygen demand. It is also indicated for abnormal heart rhythms and chronic heart failure.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended initial dose is typically one tablet once daily. Dosage should be individualized by a healthcare professional. It can be taken with or without food, but it is advised to take it at the same time each day for consistent effectiveness. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. Do not discontinue the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your condition.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache, dizziness, fatigue, sleepiness
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia), breathlessness, palpitations
• Ankle swelling, edema, skin rash, flushing More serious, though rare, side effects that require immediate medical attention include allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of the face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing), severe skin reactions, abnormal heartbeat, or chest pain.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Avoid use if allergic to any ingredients, or in patients with severe heart conditions such as uncontrolled heart failure, heart blockage, cardiogenic shock, or Prinzmetal's angina. It is also not recommended for patients with asthma, lung disease, or certain other severe heart conduction or rhythm problems.
• Specific Populations: Caution is advised for patients with liver or kidney impairment, diabetes, or controlled heart failure.
• Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding; consult a doctor.
• Interactions: Avoid alcohol as it can exacerbate blood pressure lowering and side effects. Grapefruit juice should also be avoided. Inform your doctor about all other medications, especially those for blood pressure or heart-related issues, to prevent potential interactions.
• Driving: May cause dizziness or tiredness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, typically below 30°C, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

Here are some frequently asked questions about METOLAR AM 25 TABLET:

What is METOLAR AM 25 TABLET used for?

METOLAR AM 25 TABLET is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It is also prescribed for heart-related chest pain (angina), abnormal heart rhythms, and chronic heart failure. By lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.

How does METOLAR AM 25 TABLET work?

This medicine contains two active ingredients: Amlodipine and Metoprolol. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes and widens blood vessels, improving blood flow. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that slows down the heart rate and relaxes blood vessels by blocking the effects of certain natural substances in the body, such as adrenaline. Together, they make the heart more efficient at pumping blood throughout the body and help lower blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for METOLAR AM 25 TABLET?

The dosage should be individualized by your doctor. The recommended initial dose is usually one tablet of METOLAR AM-25 or METOLAR AM-50 once daily. If necessary, the dose may be increased to two tablets once daily. It can be taken with or without food, but it is best to take it at the same time each day for consistent effectiveness. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water.

What are the possible side effects of METOLAR AM 25 TABLET?

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, ankle swelling (edema), skin rash, and a slow heart rate. Some people may also experience palpitations, constipation, flushing (a sense of warmth), visual disturbances, or depression. Most side effects are usually mild and temporary. If side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is METOLAR AM 25 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

METOLAR AM 25 TABLET may be unsafe to use during pregnancy, as limited human and animal studies suggest potential harm to the baby. It is also probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and harm the baby. It is crucial to consult your doctor for advice before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.

Can METOLAR AM 25 TABLET be taken with other medications?

METOLAR AM 25 TABLET can interact with other medications, especially those used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions, or diabetes. Inform your doctor about all medicines, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins you are taking to avoid potential interactions. For example, combining it with certain calcium channel blockers (like Verapamil or Diltiazem), catecholamine-depleting drugs, or CYP2D6 inhibitors may increase the risk of side effects or alter drug concentrations.

What precautions should be taken while taking METOLAR AM 25 TABLET?

Do not stop taking METOLAR AM 25 TABLET suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can cause your blood pressure or heart condition to worsen and may lead to serious complications like chest pain, irregular heartbeats, or a heart attack. Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, heart conditions (like severe heart failure or very slow heart rate), diabetes, or bronchospastic diseases (e.g., asthma). Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can cause low blood pressure when taken with this medicine. Also, avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it may increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of the medicine. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels may be necessary during treatment. This medicine may cause dizziness or sleepiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of METOLAR AM 25 TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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, as this can be harmful.

How should METOLAR AM 25 TABLET be stored?

Store METOLAR AM 25 TABLET in a cool and dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep it out of sight and reach of children and pets. It should be stored at room temperature, typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.