Going off Toprol XL

[Wendy]

I posted this question on 12-3 but apparently it got missed.



After taking Toprol XL 50 for ten months, my doctor has said that I can wean myself off it gradually over a few weeks. He's suggested breaking the pills in half, taking only a half each day instead of a whole one. I know that these pills are time released and I am wondering if breaking them in half defeats the time release action and if this is an appropriate way of getting half dosage. Your thoughts would be appreciated. By the way, I also take Norvasc for coronary artery spasm and I'm staying on that medication indefinitely. My first and only symptoms were a mild heart attack ten months ago.

     Wendy

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Wendy,



Please see my prior posting.



Please do not repost the same question. As this site allows limited postings per day, this means that someone is deprived of a question.  

[Deborah]

My doctor just put me on 50 mg of Toprol-XL for PVC.  My heart is missing every third beat, but when I exercised on the tread mill the missing beats stop, then come back.  When really stressed I miss every other beat.  Is putting me on Toprol going to help.  Also the listed side effects seem to be the same symptoms as having the PVC.  Is having this many PVC going to cause any damage to my heart in the long run.  Is there any natural thing I can do to help no have PVC?



Thank you

[Deb42764]

A related discussion, Is going off Toprol cold turkey ok? was started.