How To Wean Off Metoprolol Succinate?

Posted on Sat, 21 Feb 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 21 Feb 2015 Answered on

Tue, 17 Mar 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : How do I wean off of metoprolol succinate 50mg

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Please, this is not cold turkey!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for this query.

Please, what were you taking this drug for and why do you want to stop? This is not cold turkey. I would like to understand the reasons and make suer we are doing the right thing before endorsing and providing advise on this. I hope to hear from you about this.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Thanks for using our services and feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (3 hours later)

I am originally on this for mvp but I never had any bad episodes of palpitations now I am experiencing ed and found thus is a major side effect from metoprolol unless there is somthing safr I can take with this

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Is MVP=mitral valve prolapse?

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for this follow up information.

Metoprolol causes ED as a side effect. That is true and it should be addressed. However, I will like the doctor who knows the exact reasons and medical condition for which this drug was prescribed to do so.

If you chose to go ahead without his authorization, then tapering off would be the best approach. Reducing the dose to 25mg daily for 2weeks, then 25mg daily every 2days for 2weeks and finally 25mg daily every 4days for 2weeks and discontinue after 6weeks. If you experience any withdrawal symptoms like palpitations, sweating, etc, please let me know.

Thanks and wish you well.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar