Metoprolol is a commonly used drug forming part of the class of drugs known as selective beta1 (β1) receptor blockers. Beta blockers have a positive effect on blood circulation and blood pressure, amongst other things. Metoprolol also slows the heart rate and reduces the amount of oxygen needed by the heart. It is used to treat angina (heart spasm resulting from oxygen deficiency), in the event of heart failure and after a cardiac arrest, and is also prescribed to patients suffering from cardiac arrhythmia, high blood pressure, migraines and an overactive thyroid.
Metoprolol and the benefit of DNA analysis
The rate at which metoprolol is processed within your body varies from one individual to another. This means that the efficacy and side effects of metoprolol can be predicted to some extent on the basis of your genes.
Preventive DNA analysis can therefore be an important tool in optimising your medication.
Metoprolol and the enzyme CYP2D6
Metoprolol is processed to a large extent by the enzyme CYP2D6. The activity of this enzyme can vary considerably depending on your genetic predisposition, which means the efficacy of metoprolol can also differ from person to person.
Information about your genetic predisposition may therefore provide grounds for extra vigilance in relation to a treatment with metoprolol.
Read more about CYP2D6 enzyme »
Also known as
Selokeen, Selokomb, Metoprololi Tartras, Metoprololtartraat, Metoprololi Succinas, Metoprolol/Hydrochloorthiazide, Metoprololsuccinaat, Corvitol, Minax, TOPROL, Toprol-XL, TOPROLXL