Metoprolol
LopressorPubChem CID 4171 · 3D model
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Blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart to slow the heartbeat and reduce how hard it has to work.
How it works
Metoprolol targets beta-1 receptors, proteins mostly found in the heart that respond to stress hormones like adrenaline. By blocking these receptors, the drug slows the heart rate and eases the force of each heartbeat, so the heart doesn't have to work as hard. At normal doses it mainly affects the heart, but at higher doses it can also touch receptors in the lungs and blood vessels. Overall, this leads to lower blood pressure and less strain on the heart muscle.
What it’s used for
Approved to treat high blood pressure and lower the risk of stroke and heart attack, to reduce chest pain and help patients exercise more comfortably, and to improve survival odds in stable patients who are having or have recently had a heart attack.
- Mechanism
- Beta-1 adrenergic receptor antagonist
- Drug class
- Small molecule
- Therapeutic area
- Cardiovascular