Metoprolol is a type of beta-blocker that a doctor may prescribe for certain heart conditions. A person with asthma should consult a doctor before taking metoprolol, as there may be a higher risk of an asthma attack.

Asthma is a long-term lung condition that can cause inflammation and narrowing in the airways, making it difficult to breathe.

Asthma symptoms can include tightness in the chest, wheezing, and coughing. Certain things can trigger asthma symptoms, including pollen, pets, infections, stress, and various medications.

Metoprolol is a type of beta-blocker medication that doctors typically prescribe for angina, high blood pressure, an irregular heartbeat, and to recover from and reduce the risk of heart failure.

This article discusses whether taking metoprolol can lead to asthma or other respiratory conditions.

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Metoprolol cannot directly cause asthma. However, if a person has a history of asthma, 2021 research suggests that taking metoprolol may increase the risk of having an asthma attack.

In rare cases, even if a person does not have a history of asthma, taking metoprolol can lead to:

If a person experiences any of these symptoms after taking metoprolol, it is highly advisable to call 911 immediately.

Metoprolol belongs to a group of medications called beta-blockers. It typically works by relaxing the blood vessels in the heart, which can slow heart rate, reduce blood pressure, and increase blood flow to the heart.

Metoprolol comes in extended-release and slow-release tablet forms, which a person will typically take orally. However, people can receive metoprolol via injection if they prefer.

Metoprolol has Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for treating various heart conditions, including:

A doctor may also prescribe metoprolol for the prevention of migraine and to improve thyroid health.

Studies suggest that people with asthma may be more at risk of developing certain heart conditions, such as an irregular heartbeat. Beta-blockers, such as metoprolol, are one of the medications that a doctor may typically prescribe for an irregular heartbeat.

If a person has asthma, one of the risks of taking beta-blockers is the increased risk of having an asthma attack.

However, research shows that cardio-selective beta-blockers such as metoprolol do not increase the risk of an asthma attack as significantly as other types of beta-blockers.

Therefore, depending on the medical history of a person and the severity of their asthma, the benefits of taking metoprolol for a heart condition such as an irregular heartbeat may outweigh the risks.

There are several side effects for a person with asthma taking metoprolol. A person should always consult a doctor if they have asthma or a history of asthma before taking metoprolol.

Some side effects of metoprolol can include:

Asthma and allergy resources

To discover more evidence-based information and resources for living with asthma and allergies, visit our dedicated hub.

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Asthma is a long-term lung condition that can cause tightening of the chest, difficulty breathing, and wheezing. This is due to inflammation in the airways.

Metoprolol is a type of beta-blocker medication that has FDA approval to treat heart conditions such as angina and an irregular heartbeat and to recover from and prevent a heart attack or heart failure.

Research suggests that if a person has asthma or a history of asthma, taking beta-blockers such as metoprolol may increase the risk of an asthma attack. However, if a person has a heart condition such as an irregular heartbeat, the benefits of taking metoprolol may outweigh the risks.

Side effects of a person with asthma taking metoprolol can include shortness of breath, wheezing, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and depression.

In rare cases, a person taking metoprolol without a history of asthma may experience side effects such as shortness of breath and wheezing.

A person with asthma or a history of asthma should always consult a doctor before taking metoprolol.