Abnormalities in the potassium level can lead to some of your symptoms. Checking the levels with a simple blood test is recommended.
I am not aware of tight calves and joint pains being common side effects of metoprolol. Checking other electrolyte levels, specifically the calcium and sodium levels, should also be done.
These options should be discussed with your personal physician.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
I have been on metoprolol for 5 months to treat ventricular tachycardia and ongoing pvcs. For about a month now I have been experiencing the same effects as you. I have such tight calf muscles and the feeling of tightness in my legs and swelling around my ankles, although symptoms are not visible. I have also had very painful musculoskeletal chest pain and ankle joint pain. I had severe asthma, shortness of breath and fatigue. After a lot of dizziness and other pain, and discussions with my doctor, I slowly decreased my dose and have been Metoprolol free for two days. My cough, wheeze, pain etc has almost gone. I have immediately more energy and also no dizziness. My legs and ankles still hurt and I have tight calves. I hope my body returns to what it used to be. My palpitations and tachycardia settled a while back after being aggressively treated for iron deficiency anaemia. I would never have taken metoprolol if I knew the side effects I would experience. I wasn't given a choice or information. Hospital put me on it. I have never been so sick in my life or had so much pain.
Thanks. I went to the doctor yesterday (before reading your post) and the doctor ordered blood tests for electrolyte levels, tsh, and a metabolic panel. Also, the doctor ordered several x-rays of my back. If nothing shows up there, and if my symptoms don't get better, then I'll probably be referred to a neurologist. Thanks again.
David