Metoprolol Shortage.........

[Poodlewoman]

My in house pharmacy at myGP’s cannot get any Metoprolol 50mg or 100mg due to shortage from the manufacturer. So without advising me gave me 3.75mg Bisoprolol once daily....... instead of my metoprolol 50 mg twice daily. Telling me it would be the same.

However, upon looking at the SPC site memo on suitable alternatives, Bisoprolol was not advised for arrhythmia’s and no mention of Paroxysmal AF.

I have refused to take it because it has taken me ages to get used to the drugs for my PAF and I am worred about taking something different. I have managed to locate a pharmacy with enough stock to fulfil a prescription so I can at least for the next month, take my tablets as normal.

Anyone else having this problem ?

[CDreamer]

I believe there was a post about a shortage a week or so ago. I’ve had drug shortages on several different meds for various reasons over the years. Not sure it’s going to improve anytime soon.

[BobD Volunteer]

There are always shortages of different drugs usually due to production schedules and logistics. Despite some people's fear re the B word this has been going on for years long before 2016.

By the way Bisoprolol is actually the first choice for rate control in AF. It is not a rhythm control drug but then neither is Metoprolol. Both are beta blockers to slow the heart. If you go to AF Association website there is a useful fact sheet on drugs used in AF.

[Poodlewoman in reply to BobD]

Thanks.

[John67]

I have had the same problem and am now taking atenolol which sees to be ok. However, I had been taking metroprolol for over three years and I have not felt as well as I did previously. I'll give it a little longer and hope for the best!

Regards

John67

[Ren912]

I take 50 mg, and so far have had no issues with shortages. I wouldn’t want to take anything different as it works well for me. Where do you live? I live in Ontario. I had to wait a few days once for Pradaxa but still had some. I try to order refills a week or so before I run out.