Metoprolol
(Betaloc®, Metoprolol tartrate)
Available as tablets or capsules.
Tablets
Available as soluble tablets?
No
Available as a liquid?
Yes - unlicensed
Available as something for placing under your tongue?
No
Available as something for placing on your gum?
No
Available as granules?
No
Available as a patch for putting on your skin?
No
Available as an injection?
Yes
Available as nasal/oral spray?
-
Safe or appropriate to crush
Crushing or dispersing should always be used as a last resort but current text books and resources suggest that it is likely to be safe. Clinicians should be aware that this an unlicensed use of the medication. Modified release products should not be crushed.
Additional information for Healthcare Professionals+
Generic name
Metoprolol tartrate
Usual formulation brand names
Betaloc®
Is tablet/capsule specially coated?
Yes - some
Modified release
No
Film coated
Yes - some
Enteric coated
No
Sugar coated
No
Soluble tablet strength
-
Sublingual/buccal formulation strength
-
Granule strength
-
Transdermal patch strength
-
Injection strength
1mg/ml
Nasal/oral spray Strength
-
Available as a licensed liquid or special?
Special - oral solution, oral suspension
Are specials or imports available?
On Specials Tariff
Liquid strengths
12.5mg/5ml, 50mg/5ml - special
Is the liquid medicine sugar free?
Yes - check with manufacturer
Licensed for administration via enteral tube
No
Advice on administration via enteral tube
Current resources suggest that it is likely to be safe to administer via enteral feeding tubes, however this is an unlicensed use of the medication. Clinicians should refer to specialist resources for advice on how to administer this medication via enteral feeding tubes. Do not crush/disperse the modified-release tablets.
Notes
Extemporaneous preparation available for oral suspension.