Hello cynthia1246-ga!
I have found information that will answer your question. This answer
is not intended to substitute for the opinion of a qualified health
professional that you trust. If you have any specific concerns or
questions you should discuss them with him or her.
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METOPROLOL (TOPROL)
?Toprol is in a group of drugs called beta-blockers. Beta-blockers
affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and
veins). Toprol is used to treat angina (chest pain) and hypertension
(high blood pressure). It is also used to treat or prevent heart
attack.?
One of the problems with Toprol, and beta-blockers in general is that
they not only lower blood pressure, but they also decrease the heart
rate. For some people this can be quite troublesome and even
dangerous. For these people, an alternative will be used. Here is more
information on Toprol, including other side effects and dosages.
http://www.drugs.com/toprol.html
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LISINOPRIL (PRINIVIL, ZESTRIL)
?Lisinopril is in a class of drugs called
angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Lisinopril is used to
lower blood pressure, to treat congestive heart failure, and to
improve the survival rate after a heart attack.?
One of the problems with Lisnopril, and ACE inhibitors in general, is
that they can sometimes cause a cough. For some people this is not too
troublesome, but for many it can be bad enough that they need to
switch medications. One benefit of the ACE inhibitors is that when
given to people with diabetes they help protect the kidneys from being
damaged. For this reason doctors will usually prescribe them for
diabetics, regardless of whether or not they have high blood pressure.
Here is more information on Lisinopril, including other side effects
and dosages.
http://www.drugs.com/lisinopril.html
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HYPERTENSION MEDICATIONS
There are a number of medications that are used in treating
hypertension. Beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors are just two types of
these medications. Here is some general information about them.
?[Beta blockers] work by blocking the effects of certain chemicals in
your body. With some of these drugs, your heart may beat more slowly
and less forcefully. With others, your blood vessels may dilate and
you may feel faint when you stand up. These actions on your heart and
blood vessels lower your blood pressure. . . .
Beta-blockers have been proven to reduce the risks associated with
hypertension, including heart attacks and strokes. They have been used
for many years, their side effects are well known, and they are
generally less expensive than some other blood pressure medications.
All antihypertensive classes reduce CVS [cardiovascular system] events
with perhaps the exception of alpha blockers. . . .
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors dilate your blood
vessels by blocking the formation of the natural body chemical
angiotensin II, which constricts blood vessels. However, up to 20% of
people who take ACE inhibitors . . . develop a dry, hacking cough.
This annoying side effect typically occurs in the 10 to 24 weeks after
starting the drug. The cause is unknown. Switching to another type of
ACE inhibitor may decrease or stop your cough. There are also similar
anti-hypertensive medications that may not produce a cough. Don't stop
taking a medication without first seeing your doctor. These drugs may
be particularly effective in patients with diabetes and renal
disease.?
http://www.health24.com/medical/Condition_centres/777-792-815-1782,16811.asp
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SUMMARY
Because Toprol and Lisinopril are in two different classes of
medications, you cannot simply switch from one to the other. There is
no dose of Lisinopril that directly correlates with a dose of Toprol.
This does not mean that your physician cannot put you on Lisinopril
instead of Toprol, however. He or she will need to follow your blood
pressure and heart rate closely, as well as monitor you for any new
side effects after the switch. Again, if you have specific concerns or
questions, be sure to discuss them with your own physician, or with a
qualified health practitioner that you trust.
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I hope that you find this information useful! If you have any need of
further clarification, please let me know how I can help.
Sincerely,
Boquinha-ga
Search terms:
Toprol information
Lisinopril information
Hypertension medication |
