A selective beta-1 adrenergic blocker that slows heart rate and reduces blood pressure by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart. It's widely used for hypertension, heart failure, and preventing complications after heart attacks.
From 'meto-' (relating to its methoxy chemical group) + 'prolol', with the standard '-olol' suffix for beta-blockers. Developed in the 1970s as part of efforts to create more heart-selective beta-blockers with fewer lung side effects.
Metoprolol comes in two formulations that work completely differently - the immediate-release version needs to be taken twice daily, while the extended-release 'succinate' form works for 24 hours! This difference is so important that prescribing the wrong type can lead to dangerous blood pressure swings.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.