Effects of Toprol-XL

Toprol-XL^® (metoprolol succinate) is a prescription medication approved to treat several conditions, including high blood pressure, angina, and congestive heart failure. There are also unapproved, "off-label" uses of Toprol-XL, such as for treating migraines or anxiety. Toprol-XL has not been licensed for use in children, although it is often used to treat specific conditions in children (such as high blood pressure or Marfan syndrome).

Toprol-XL works by blocking beta receptors, which causes the reverse effect of stress hormones. As a result, Toprol-XL produces effects that help decrease heart rate and both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The medication also decreases the workload of the heart, which increases the efficiency of the heart and allows more blood to be pumped out to the rest of the body.

By decreasing the workload of the heart, the medication can also decrease the number of angina attacks and increase exercise tolerance. For people with congestive heart failure, the effects of Toprol-XL on the heart and blood vessels have been shown to result in a decrease in hospitalizations and loss of life from congestive heart failure.

(Click Toprol-XL for a more in-depth look at Toprol-XL and its effects, including information on how it works, general dosing guidelines, and what to know before starting treatment with this medication.)