What symptom should a patient taking metoprolol monitor for and report to their provider?

Patients taking metoprolol, a beta-blocker, should closely monitor for bradycardia, which is an abnormally slow heart rate typically defined as less than 60 beats per minute. Metoprolol works by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, leading to a decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. While this can be beneficial in managing certain cardiovascular conditions, excessive slowing of the heart rate can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or fainting, and may pose serious health risks.

Monitoring for bradycardia is especially important because it can result in inadequate blood flow to vital organs, which may precipitate further complications. Patients are instructed to contact their healthcare provider if they experience signs of bradycardia, ensuring timely intervention and management.

In contrast, other symptoms like palpitations, hypertension, or chest pain may have different underlying causes or may not be directly related to metoprolol therapy, making them less critical for monitoring in this context.