Generic Lopressor

Brand-name Lopressor has come off patent, and generic versions are currently available. Generic Lopressor is sold under the name Metoprolol Tartrate tablets and is available in several strengths, including 50 mg and 100 mg. A few of the companies that currently manufacture this medication include Watson Pharmaceuticals, Mylan Laboratories, Sandoz, and Teva Pharmaceuticals.

Generic Lopressor: An Overview

Lopressor^® (metoprolol tartrate) is a prescription medication that is used for lowering blood pressure (hypertension), relieving angina symptoms, and improving the chances of survival after a heart attack. Lopressor may also be used off-label for other reasons, such as treating migraines or anxiety.

Lopressor is part of a class of medicines called beta-adrenergic blocking agents, or beta blockers for short. Lopressor helps to block a specific type of beta receptor called beta-1 receptors. By blocking beta-1 receptors, Lopressor causes the reverse effect of stress hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine). It decreases heart rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as the workload of the heart. This means that the heart requires less blood and oxygen to work properly.

Lopressor was originally developed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals. It has since come off patent, making it available as a generic.