Metoprolol succinate extended release 25mg pharmacology
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Metoprolol Succinate Extended Release 25mg: Pharmacology and Drug Delivery
Beta-1 Selective Blockade and Cardioselectivity
Metoprolol succinate extended-release (ER) 25mg is a beta-1 selective (cardioselective) adrenoceptor blocker. This means it primarily blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, reducing heart rate, cardiac output, and blood pressure, while having minimal effect on beta-2 receptors at recommended doses. This selectivity helps minimize side effects related to beta-2 blockade, such as bronchoconstriction, especially at doses up to 200mg daily 234.
Extended-Release Formulation and Drug Release Mechanism
The ER formulation is designed to provide a controlled and predictable release of metoprolol over approximately 20 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. The tablet contains multiple controlled-release pellets, each acting as a separate drug delivery unit, ensuring continuous drug release throughout the day. This results in stable plasma concentrations, avoiding the peaks and troughs seen with immediate-release formulations 1245910.
The drug release from the ER tablet is governed by diffusion through a swollen polymer matrix and erosion of the matrix, resulting in a near zero-order or non-fickian release profile. This controlled release is largely independent of food intake and gastrointestinal pH, supporting consistent therapeutic effects 158910.
Pharmacokinetics and Bioavailability
Once-daily dosing of metoprolol succinate ER 25mg produces even plasma concentrations over 24 hours, leading to consistent beta-1 blockade. Pharmacokinetic studies show that the ER formulation maintains stable drug levels, with less fluctuation compared to immediate-release metoprolol. The ER tablet is bioequivalent to other marketed ER formulations, with similar absorption and safety profiles under both fasting and fed conditions 147.
Clinical Indications and Dosing
Metoprolol succinate ER is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, angina pectoris, and stable, symptomatic heart failure (NYHA Class II or III). The recommended starting dose for heart failure is 12.5mg or 25mg once daily, which can be doubled every two weeks up to the highest tolerated dose or a maximum of 200mg daily. For hypertension, the usual initial dose is 25–100mg once daily, with adjustments as needed 36.
Efficacy and Tolerability
Clinical trials have demonstrated that metoprolol succinate ER significantly reduces mortality and hospitalizations in patients with heart failure, and is generally well tolerated. The extended-release formulation improves patient compliance by reducing dosing frequency and maintaining therapeutic drug levels throughout the day 148.
Conclusion
Metoprolol succinate extended-release 25mg is a cardioselective beta-blocker formulated for once-daily dosing. Its extended-release matrix ensures stable plasma concentrations, consistent beta-1 blockade, and improved patient compliance. The formulation is effective and well tolerated for managing hypertension, angina, and heart failure, with a pharmacokinetic profile that supports its clinical benefits 12345678+2 MORE.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Try another search
prenatal environmental influences on fetal development
dietary supplements vs food supplements
public health services in the United States
How is artificial intelligence transforming the agri-food sector?
Does long-term plyometric training improve tendon structure and stiffness in athletes?
high protein diets and cholesterol