Metoprolol is the type of medicine that improves your heart health. It’s usually used in lowering blood pressure and heart rate levels as well as perhaps reducing chest pain. According to the APA in the U.S., this beta-blocker should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
In both Australia and the UK, its use in pregnancies is not recommended unless the possible benefit to the expectant mother far outweighs the risk.
If a pregnant woman needs to use metoprolol, then the general suggestion is for the lowest possible dose to be administered and then discontinued at least two to three days prior to labor or childbirth if possible.
Knowledge about whether this drug can affect fertility levels in women is currently unknown. The potential for it to increase the chance of miscarriage has also not yet been directly studied. However, on the positive side, our current research suggests that Metoprolol is considered safe during pregnancy.
It’s important to ensure that the direction to take metoprolol is strictly upon a doctor’s prescription as doctors would first consider your individual health profile, risks, and benefits and dictate the course of treatment.
Tips for taking metoprolol safely during pregnancy
If your healthcare provider has determined that taking this medicine is necessary for your medical condition, then heed to these tips to guide you take it safely;
- Use If Clearly Needed: It should only be used during pregnancy if it’s seriously needed. If you’re prescribed Metoprolol at a pharmacy, make sure to chat your personal doctor about your current situation and any possible alternatives that might be safer for your condition.
- Less is More: If it is necessary for you to take Metoprolol during pregnancy, then you should take the least possible dose.
- Plan Your Delivery: Ideally, if you’ve been on it throughout your journey, it should be discontinued at least 2 to 3 days before your expected date.
- Keep communicating with your healthcare provider: Because every woman has a different journey, always discuss with your healthcare provider before making any decisions.
What dose of Metoprolol should I take during pregnancy?
The best dosage of metoprolol during pregnancy should be determined by your doctor who can assess your condition and its severity.
You know, this medicine comes in several formulations and strengths, and the dosing can vary depending on the indication upon which it was prescribed.
Metoprolol is used to treat hypertension, and the amount to pop in can range from 30 to 200 mg in a day.
In pregnancy, the goal is to use the very least effective dose to manage your condition while minimizing potential risks to the fetus.
Alternatives for metoprolol during pregnancy
Your doctor will always consider various treatment options before finally prescribing metoprolol for you.
In fact, in most cases, they may recommend other alternatives other than this during pregnancy. Here are some potential options they may recommend:
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):
- Methyldopa: This is a commonly used medication for treating hypertension during pregnancy. It has long been used in pregnancies and is known to be safe for you and the baby.
- Labetalol: It’s another option for managing high blood pressure in pregnancies. It’s a combined alpha and beta blocker and is often used when other medicines are ineffective.
- Nifedipine (Extended-Release): Nifedipine, especially the extended-release form, is sometimes used by pregnant women to treat hypertension. It belongs to the calcium channel blocker class of medications and helps dilate blood vessels.
- Hydralazine: Used for managing high blood pressure(hBP), too. As a direct acting vasodilator, it helps your blood vessels to relax, which in tend, decreases blood pressure levels. They are usually used alone or combined with other medicines when needed.
Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeat)
- Calcium Channel Blockers: Some calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil or diltiazem, may be considered as alternatives for managing certain arrhythmias during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will determine the best one based on your condition.
- Medication Adjustment: In some cases, your healthcare provider may adjust the dose or regimen of your current anti-arrhythmic medication to minimize risks.
Angina (Chest Pain)
- Nitroglycerin: This drug quickly relieves symptoms of angina. It is typically prescribed to be used beneath the tongue as sublingual tablet or in other forms like suppositories.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Depending on the how severe your angina is, your healthcare provider may advise that you make changes in your lifestyle habits including starting exercises and adjusting your diet.
Anxiety or Panic Disorders:
- Psychotherapy: Non-pharmacological treatments, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or counseling, may be considered as initial options for managing anxiety or panic disorders during pregnancy.
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): In some cases, SSRIs like sertraline or fluoxetine may be prescribed after a careful risk-benefit assessment. However, their use should be closely monitored.
Migraine Headaches:
- Acetaminophen: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered safe for managing mild to moderate headaches during pregnancy. Always follow the recommended dosage.
- Lifestyle Measures: Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers, staying hydrated, and getting adequate rest can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
It is worth noting that the choice of medicine or treatment option shoud be one that has been prescribed and assessed by your doctor based on your condition.
They will consider the best options to manage your health while minimizing potential risks to both you and your baby.
FAQs ABOUT Is Metoprolol Safe For Pregnancy?
There isn’t a simple answer for this question. While Some studies say that it is completely safe, most healthcare professionals, including myself, suggest that it should only be used in early stages of pregnancy when benefits outweighs the risks. Moreover, it should strictly be prescribed by your doctor.
Even though metoprolol succinate has long been used by pregnant women without any reported effects, it should be taken with strict monitoring. You should also report the slightest observation or symptom to your doctor for immediate response.
Both Labetalol and Metoprolol are beta-blockers used to treat heightened blood pressure levels; but they work slightly different.
Labetalol blocks both beta and alpha receptors, which can provide a more comprehensive treatment. Metoprolol, on the other hand, primarily blocks beta receptors. Labetalol is extensively studied and more commonly prescribed during pregnancy
The following individuals should typically avoid Metoprolol or use it with precaution:
Those with severe liver disease, as Metoprolol is metabolized in the liver, Individuals with low blood pressure, those with severe blood circulation problems and individuals who suffer from severe allergies or asthma. People with heart conditions such as slow heart rate, irregular heart rhythm, or heart failure.
Remember, this isn’t a complete list, as there may be some other conditions that will worsen by taking this medicine. That is why it becomes important to chat your doctor before popping these pills.
Conclusion
Whether Metoprolol is safe for pregnancy isn’t a simple yes or no question in all situations. But it is usually safe, and doctors say should use it only if the benefits are more than the risks to the baby.
While it has been used without harmful effects sometimes, we have other medicines like Methyldopa, Labetalol and Nifedipine.
These have been tested thoroughly and are usually safer. Be sure to talk to your doctor anytime you decide on using metoprolol. He can assess your health and make sure it’s thoroughly safe for you and your baby.
References:
- National Institutes Of Health (Pregnancy-induced increase in metoprolol metabolism)
- National Institutes Of Health (Pharmacokinetics of metoprolol during pregnancy and lactation)
