4. Low Blood Pressure

Because metoprolol can lower blood pressure, some people may experience blood pressure that becomes too low for them.

Low blood pressure can produce symptoms such as:

Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Weakness
Blurred vision
Fainting
Feeling unsteady when standing

If you regularly experience these symptoms, your healthcare professional may need to review your blood pressure and medication regimen.

It is especially important to be cautious when taking multiple medicines that can lower blood pressure because their effects can sometimes add together.

5. Shortness of Breath or Breathing Problems

Breathing difficulty is not something to dismiss while taking metoprolol.

Metoprolol is relatively selective for certain beta receptors, but beta-blockers can still affect the airways in some people, particularly those with certain respiratory conditions.

People with asthma or other lung diseases should make sure their healthcare professional knows about their condition before taking metoprolol.

If you develop new or worsening difficulty breathing, wheezing, or significant shortness of breath, contact a healthcare professional promptly.

Severe difficulty breathing requires urgent medical attention.

6. Swelling of the Feet, Ankles, or Lower Legs

Swelling can be an important symptom to watch for.

Some people taking metoprolol may develop swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs. Swelling can also be associated with other heart or circulation problems, so it should not automatically be assumed to be a harmless medication effect.

Pay attention to changes such as:

Shoes suddenly becoming tight
Socks leaving deep marks around the ankles
Ankles becoming visibly swollen
Rapid changes in body weight
Swelling that becomes worse throughout the day

If swelling develops or becomes significantly worse, contact your healthcare professional.

Swelling combined with shortness of breath or rapid unexplained weight gain deserves particularly prompt medical evaluation.

7. Fainting

Fainting or losing consciousness is not a symptom that should be ignored.

Because metoprolol can lower heart rate and blood pressure, excessive effects may sometimes contribute to fainting.

However, fainting can also have many other causes, including heart rhythm problems, dehydration, blood loss, neurological problems, and other medical conditions.

If you faint while taking metoprolol, contact a healthcare professional for evaluation.

If fainting occurs with chest pain, severe shortness of breath, a racing or irregular heartbeat, or another severe symptom, seek emergency medical assistance.

8. Digestive Problems

Metoprolol can cause digestive symptoms in some people.

Possible problems can include:

Diarrhea
Nausea
Stomach discomfort
Changes in appetite
Dry mouth

These symptoms may be mild and temporary, particularly when treatment is first started.

If diarrhea or vomiting becomes severe, however, dehydration can become a concern. Dehydration can affect blood pressure and may make dizziness worse.

If digestive symptoms persist or interfere with eating and drinking normally, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.