Metfirst XL 50 mg Tablet (10 Tab)

Metfirst XL 50 Tablet Overview:

Metfirst XL 50 Tablet is an antihypertensive medicine, prescribed alone or in combination with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is also used for long-term treatment of chest pain (angina), chronic heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and heart conditions that cause palpitations. Additionally, Metfirst XL 50 Tablet helps prevent migraines and reduces the risk of further heart damage or heart attacks after a previous one.

Metfirst XL 50 works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood, and helps lower blood pressure.

Composition of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

Each hard gelatin Metfirst XL 50 Tablet contains: Metoprolol succinate 47.5 mg equivalent to Metoprolol Tartrate 50 mg and Excipients q.s.

Uses and Benefits of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

Metfirst XL 50 Tablet is prescribed for the following conditions:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Helps lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of complications such as stroke and heart attack.

• Angina Pectoris (Chest Pain): Provides long-term relief from chest tightness or pain.

• Chronic Heart Failure: Enhances heart function in patients with weakened heart muscles.

• Cardiovascular Conditions with Palpitations: Controls rapid or irregular heartbeats associated with heart conditions.

• Arrhythmias: Helps maintain a regular heart rhythm, preventing abnormal heartbeats.

• Post-Heart Attack Care: Prevents further heart attacks, minimizes heart damage, and lowers the risk of heart-related death.

In addition to its primary uses, Metfirst XL 50 Tablet is also used to prevent migraines and helps manage overactive thyroid symptoms.

How Metfirst XL 50 Tablet works:

Metfirst XL 50 Tablet contains Metoprolol Tartrate, a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers. Metfirst XL 50 Tablet is commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain (angina), and irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) by blocking the effects of adrenaline (epinephrine) on beta-adrenergic receptors in the body. This action helps reduce the heart’s response to physical and emotional stress. As a result, it helps relax blood vessels, lowers heart rate, and reduces the workload on the heart, making it easier for the heart to pump blood efficiently.

Dosage of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

• Usage Direction

Take Metfirst XL 50 Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and follow the recommended dosage and schedule. Metfirst XL 50 Tablet should be swallowed as a whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking it, and ideally at the same time each day. Do not stop or alter the dose of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet without consulting your doctor, as this may prevent you from achieving the desired outcome. If you are unsure about the administration procedures of Metfirst XL 50 , consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

• Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet, take it as soon as it is remembered. If it is time for your next dose of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Avoid taking a double dose of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet to make up for a missed one.

• Overdose

If you accidentally take Metfirst XL 50 Tablet more than your prescribed dose, seek immediate medical advice, as this may lead to serious side effects. Symptoms of overdose may include feeling sick, vomiting, bluish skin and nails, very low blood pressure, slow or irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, fainting, convulsions (fits), coma or death.

Contraindications of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

Do not take Metfirst XL 50 Tablet if you are allergic or hypersensitive to metoprolol, any other beta-blockers or any ingredient of this medicine. You must not take Metfirst XL 50 Tablet Tablet if you have had sudden loss of consciousness sometimes, asthma, wheezing, difficulty breathing or other severe lung problems, a very slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, sudden chest pain, irregular heartbeat, swollen ankles and/or tiredness due to heart disease or certain other heart conditions, poor blood circulation in your limbs, etc.

Precautions & Warnings of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

Before taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet, inform your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes, an overactive thyroid, Prinzmetal’s angina, psoriasis, kidney or liver problems, or AV block. Also, let your doctor know if you are younger than 40 or older than 80, and if you have heart failure along with a recent heart attack, enlarged heart, recent heart surgery, or unstable heart failure.

Side Effects of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

Metfirst XL 50 Tablet may cause some side effects, often mild and usually disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if these symptoms continue, it is important to consult your doctor. Common side effects include dizziness, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, rash, dry mouth, gas or bloating, cold hands & feet, runny nose, etc. Some side effects can be more serious and require medical attention, such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, wheezing, fainting, rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat, swelling, and weight gain.

Safety Related Concerns of  Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

• Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult with your doctor whether Metfirst XL 50 is safe for you, as it may have an impact on your developing baby.

• Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid Metfirst XL 50 as it can pass through breast milk and may affect your breastfed baby. If you notice any unusual symptoms while taking Metfirst XL 50 or have any other concerns about your baby, it is important to talk to your doctor immediately.

• Alcohol

It is generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet , as alcohol can enhance the medicine’s blood pressure-lowering effect and may lead to increased drowsiness and dizziness. To minimize these risks, it is advisable to avoid alcohol while undergoing treatment with Metfirst XL 50 Tablet. If you notice any unusual symptoms after consuming alcohol while on this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

• Food or Interactions with Other Medicines

While taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet, it's important to avoid foods high in salt and fat, including fatty dairy products, as well as alcohol and smoking, since these can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.

Consult your doctor if you are taking any herbal products, supplements or other medicines while taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet. As always, please consult your doctor or healthcare provider about your specific dietary needs while on Metfirst XL 50 Tablet.

• Driving

If you experience side effects such as dizziness or tiredness, you should avoid driving or operating machinery while taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet.

Storage of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

Store in a tight container, at a temperature not exceeding 30ºC.

Keep Metfirst XL 50 Tablet out of reach of children.

Note: Regular exercise, monitoring blood pressure regularly, eating a healthy and balanced diet low in saturated fats and trans fats, and limiting unhealthy fats, salt, and sugar can help improve your condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Metfirst XL 50 Tablet:

1. What is Metfirst XL 50 Tablet used for?

Metfirst XL 50 Tablet is an antihypertensive medicine, prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain (angina), chronic heart failure, irregular heartbeats, and heart conditions that cause palpitations. Metfirst XL 50 Tablet also helps prevent migraines and reduces the risk of further heart damage or heart attacks after a previous one.

2. How should I take Metfirst XL 50 Tablet?

Take Metfirst XL 50 Tablet exactly as your doctor prescribes, usually once daily with or after food. Swallow the Metfirst XL 50 Tablet whole with water and avoid crushing, cutting or chewing it. To achieve the best result, take Metfirst XL 50 Tablet.

3. Can I stop taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet suddenly?

No, you should not stop taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet suddenly. Stopping Metfirst XL 50 Tablet without medical consultation could prevent the achievement of the expected therapeutic outcome. Always speak with your doctor before making any changes to your dose or discontinuing the medication.

4. Are there any lifestyle changes I should follow while taking this medication?

Yes, certain lifestyle changes can improve the effectiveness of Metfirst XL 50 Tablet. Maintain a balanced, low-salt diet, engage in regular physical activity, and avoid alcohol and smoking. Manage stress through relaxation techniques, and monitor your blood pressure regularly to track progress. Always follow your doctor’s guidance for the best results and to help prevent complications while taking Metfirst XL 50 Tablet.

5. Can Metfirst XL 50 Tablet cause a dangerously slow heart rate?

Metfirst XL 50 Tablet can cause a dangerously low heart rate, especially in high doses or sensitive individuals. Bradycardia (heart rate below 60 bpm) is a known side effect, and a rate below 50 bpm may be concerning, especially with symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, fainting, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort. If you notice these symptoms, do not stop the medication suddenly and contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor may adjust your dose or prescribe an alternative treatment if necessary.

References:

1. Metoprolol Sandoz. Metoprolol tartrate tablets. Consumer Medicine Information. Last Revised: June 2024. Accessed On: 16th May 2025. Click Here

2. Metoprolol. NHS. Last Revised: 9 March 2022. Accessed On: 16th May 2025. Click Here

3. METOCARD XL 100 (Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release Tablets). Last Revised:  March 2016. Accessed On: 16th May 2025. Click Here