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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Is The Difference Between Metoprolol Tartrate And Metoprolol XL?

I am taking Metoprolol tartrate, have just had pacemaker installed, doctor has prescribed metorolol XL instead. What comparsinds are there between one and the other? Could I just take two 25 mg tablets, instead of one, as prescribed, of current Metaprolol?
Sat, 3 Feb 2018
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi & Welcome.

Metoprolol tartrate and Metoprolol XL contain the same active medication-Metoprolol. They both belong to a class of drugs called beta-blockers. These drugs treat high blood pressure and other heart conditions by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart.

Metoprolol XL comes as an extended-release oral tablet. Extended release means the drug releases into your body slowly so it remains in the bloodstream for a full 24 hours. You usually take it ONCE a day.

Whereas Metoprolol tartrate is available as an immediate-release oral tablet. It does not stay in the bloodstream for 24 hours as Metoprolol XL does, so you must take it TWICE a day.

Although they both treat high blood pressure and chest pain, these drugs are not interchangeable. They are dosed differently.

Hope to have answered your queries.
Best regards.
A feed back is appreciated.





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What Is The Difference Between Metoprolol Tartrate And Metoprolol XL?

Hi & Welcome. Metoprolol tartrate and Metoprolol XL contain the same active medication-Metoprolol. They both belong to a class of drugs called beta-blockers. These drugs treat high blood pressure and other heart conditions by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart. Metoprolol XL comes as an extended-release oral tablet. Extended release means the drug releases into your body slowly so it remains in the bloodstream for a full 24 hours. You usually take it ONCE a day. Whereas Metoprolol tartrate is available as an immediate-release oral tablet. It does not stay in the bloodstream for 24 hours as Metoprolol XL does, so you must take it TWICE a day. Although they both treat high blood pressure and chest pain, these drugs are not interchangeable. They are dosed differently. Hope to have answered your queries. Best regards. A feed back is appreciated.