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Metoprolol-HydrochlorothiazidePronounced"met-oh-PRO-lol/HCTZ" Common brand names:Co Betaloc UsesThis medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This product contains 2 medications, metoprolol and hydrochlorothiazide. Metoprolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta blockers. It works by keeping certain natural chemicals such as epinephrine from acting on the heart and blood vessels. This effect lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart. Hydrochlorothiazide is a "water pill" (diuretic) and causes your body to get rid of extra salt and water. This effect may increase the amount of urine you make when you first start the medication. Other UsesThis section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This drug may also be used for heart failure. How to Use This MedicationSee also Warning section. Take this medication by mouth with or right after a meal as directed by your doctor, usually 1 or 2 times daily. If you take this drug too close to bedtime, you may need to wake up to urinate. It is best to take this medication at least 4 hours before your bedtime. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about when to take this medication. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. It may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this medication. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. If you also take certain drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take this product at least 4 hours before or at least 4 to 6 hours after these medications. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood pressure readings remain high or increase). |