Bystolic vs. Lopressor

Bystolic (nebivolol) and Lopressor (metoprolol) are both drugs used for treating hypertension, or high blood pressure. Symptoms of this condition include:

 Dizziness
 Blurry vision
 Nausea and vomiting
 Chest pain, shortness of breath
 Headaches

If this condition is not treated early on, it can be fatal and can cause serious organ damage. This can result in heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, aneurisms, peripheral arterial disease, and more.

Comparison

Both of these drugs are beta-blockers. This means that they prevent the effects of a hormone called epinephrine. The result is reduced blood pressure, as the heart beats more slowly and with less force without the presence of epinephrine. These drugs are generally for hypertension or high blood pressure, but are sometimes used for other conditions such as migraines, angina, and congestive heart failure.

These medications both come in pill form. Lopressor is generally prescribed at 100mg for the initial dose, and increased gradually to a maximum of 450mg daily. Lopressor tablets come in 50mg and 100mg versions. Bystolic is generally prescribed at 5mg first, gradually increasing to a maximum of 40mg per day. Bystolic tablets come in 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg forms.

Side Effects

Bystolic and Lopressor may cause side effects in some cases. If a side effect does not pass or becomes worse, or if severe pain or shortness of breath is experienced, contact a doctor right away.

Bystolic may cause mild side effects such as:

 Insomnia
 Diarrhea
 Fatigue
 Headache
 Nausea and stomachache
 Lopressor may cause the following mild side effects:
 Dizziness
 Drowsiness
 Flu-like symptoms
 Diarrhea
 Headache
 Fatigue

Warnings and Interactions

It is possible to experience slowed reactions and reduced concentration while using these drugs, especially upon commencement. For this reason, avoid operating heavy machinery or performing activities such as driving. You may resume regular activities if you do not experience drowsiness or slowed reflexes, but you should always be careful when performing such activities.

While these drugs are not addictive, many individuals develop a tolerance with prolonged use. It is not advised to suddenly stop taking either of these drugs. If you do, you could experience withdrawal symptoms such as chest pains and irregular heartbeat. In rare cases, heart attack may occur with sudden absence of Lopressor in the system after prolonged use. If you wish to change your dosage or stop the drug, speak with a doctor first. He or she will have to give you a schedule to gradually reduce and eventually stop taking these medications.

Report your complete medical history to a doctor before asking for or starting to use either of these medicines. You must also inform them of any recreational or prescribed drug consumption. This way you can avoid any negative drug interactions. You should also avoid using alcohol with these drugs.

These drugs should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Only in rare cases can these drugs be used during pregnancy, usually only if the risk is outweighed by the benefit.

Which is Best?

All such medications are prescribed based on the requirements and prognosis of individual cases. Ask your physician about the pros and cons of each drug to see which will be better suited to you.