Before taking this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to metoprolol or hydrochlorothiazide; or to other thiazide diuretics (such as chlorothiazide); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: certain types of heart rhythm problems (such as a slow heartbeat, second- or third-degree atrioventricular block, sick sinus syndrome), an inability to make urine (anuria).
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood circulation problems (such as Raynaud's disease, peripheral vascular disease), pheochromocytoma, breathing problems (such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), liver disease, kidney disease, lupus, serious allergic reactions including those needing treatment with epinephrine, mental/mood disorders (such as depression), gout, loss of too much body water (dehydration), untreated salt imbalance (for example, high calcium, low potassium, low magnesium), a certain muscle/nerve disease (myasthenia gravis), skin cancer.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
To help prevent dizziness, drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Too much sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may cause you to feel lightheaded. Report prolonged diarrhea or vomiting to your doctor.
This medication may reduce the potassium levels in your blood. Ask your doctor about adding potassium to your diet. Your doctor may prescribe a potassium supplement.
If you have diabetes, this product may mask the fast/pounding heartbeat you would usually feel when your blood sugar falls too low (hypoglycemia). Other symptoms of low blood sugar, such as dizziness and sweating, are unaffected by this drug. This product may also make it harder to control your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. It may also increase your risk for skin cancer, especially if you take it for a long time. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned, have skin blisters/redness, or notice new or changed moles/skin lesions.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, including dizziness.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Metoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide pass into breast milk, but are unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.