Toprol XL : A Lifesaver

When tests disclosed a cardiac hypertrophy due to prolonged hypertension, my cardiologist placed me on Toprol XL, along with 4 other medications. They appear to be working well to keep my hypertension under control. This belongs to a class of drugs  known as beta blockers. These types of blockers help lower heart rates which allows the cardiac muscle to rest more effectively, and not become overworked. The usual dosage is 100 mg. per day, though you can be started on as little as 25 mg. and work up to the optimal dose.

Toprol XL has an uncomfortable range of side effects though, many of which I experienced, especially at the onset of treatment. The worst for me was fuzzy thinking and some short term memory loss, both of which cleared up after several months. Gastric problems are common. I often get terrible heartburn that lasts for days. This is common in many people who are on Toprol XL. Diarrhea, cramps and occasional nausea are common too, but rarely as bothersome as that signature heartburn.

People with psoriasis may find taking Toprol causes flares, which may indicate a change in medications. There are other rare but serious side effects with Toprol, but very few people ever are troubled by them. All in all, even with side effects, taking Toprol XL is worth it. Just knowing that these medications are really helping me live a better life makes it all worthwhile.