Hello,
Recently diagnosed with afib, cardiologist prescribed blood thinner and metoprolol 50mg daily. Now, my BP is 120/80 , my resting heart rate is 55, and the frequency of my afib is every 8 to 10 days, I know this is a question for my cardiologist but I would like to know from the experience of people here, does it make sense to take the metoprolol only when my heart rate going up ( considering my BP and resting heart rate) instead of daily?
Those are good numbers so I would stay on the daily regimen, but my concern would be to ask your Cardiologist what you need to do to get in NSR for longer than 8 days. Peace. Mike
When I was first prescribed Metoprolol about 17 years ago, I took it just when I had a high heart rate. However as soon as my heart rate returned to normal sinus rhythm, my pulse would drop to the 40's. I remember my GP saying I don't know why they make those tablets so strong. Not an answer to your question, but just to make you aware.
Jean
I experienced the same, HR drop to the 40's when I returned to normal sinus rhythm.
(your story is so reminiscent of mine I have chosen to bold key points, no offense intended)
You are correct is stating best to ask your cardiologist.
Metoprolol is not normally given as a "pill in pocket" but prescribed to be taken daily.
Your heart rate is very good but if you have not, would be good to wear a holter monitor or medical heart rate monitor 24 hrs for an extended period.
Personal story, I was cruising along also had a resting heart rate of 55-57 with afib episodes rarely noticed. Wore a Zio patch for 2 weeks and discovered I was in afib for 8 hrs during that period with heart rate for short periods as high as 145-150.
Moral of story - afib can be silent especially if you are otherwise in good health and exercise.
I developed persistent afib which is now controlled by .50mg Metoprolol with avg heart rate of 82. I have elected to not have an ablation or other procedure at this time.
Very important to take the anticoagulant daily.
That's what I do, but I have very infrequent AF and much more frequent mild racing and ectopic beats. The problem with taking a beta-blocker on an as-need basis is that it is slow to work, taking an hour or more.
The beta-blocker does more than just control the rate and reduce the BP a little. It does have long term helpful protective effects on the heart, so that might be why you've been told to take it regularly. Your GP will be your guide, for sure, on this.
Steve
beta blocker keeps adrenaline from speeding up your heart rate, which speed may alter your rhythm (AF). My sensitive heart would race watching a football match or with high stress. The consistent meds keeps things in check
Hi
What was your BP before Metropolol?
Metroprolol gave me 2 2sec pauses ay night. H/R night 47!
Stopped and changed to Bisprolol as H/R day not controlled from 186 with above down to 156.
Now on CCB Diltriazem am 120mg and 2.5mg Bisoprolol pm. Both are H/R rate and Rythmn drugs.
Ideal. Day 123/72. 77-88 H/R rest
Night 47 H/R no pauses
cheers Joy. 73. (NZ)
My BP is 120/80 without taking Metropolol, I am afraid to take it because my resting heart rate is 55.
I guess that's why more tests need to be done.
It is the rythmn rather than the rate.
Cheri. JOY. 73. (NZ)
normal mine goes as low at 47 and I’m only on metoprolol 50 mg
Flecainide and Metoprolol
Metoprolol
Metoprolol action
