Mixing any combination of prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs can be unpredictable and dangerous. Most fatal overdoses involve the use of more than one type of drug (poly-drug use).
Poly-drug use is dangerous because different drugs act on our bodies in different ways. The harmful effects are magnified by using more than one drug type.
What is Viagra?
Viagra is a brand-name prescription drug that’s approved to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). With ED, you’re unable to have or maintain an erection. Viagra is approved for this use in males ages 18 years and older.
Viagra contains the drug sildenafil. It belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. (A class of drugs is a group of medications that act in a similar way.) Viagra works by increasing blood flow to your penis, which helps you have and keep an erection. But this drug only works if you’re sexually aroused.
Viagra comes as tablets that are taken by mouth. In most cases, it should be taken about an hour before sexual activity, but it can be taken 30 minutes to 4 hours beforehand. Viagra is available in three strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.
What is metoprolol tartrate?
Metoprolol tartrate available under the brand name Lopressor amongst others is a medication used with or without other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication is also used to treat chest pain (angina) and to improve survival after a heart attack.
Metoprolol belongs to a class of drugs known as beta-blockers. It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals in your body, such as epinephrine, on the heart and blood vessels. This effect lowers the heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the heart.
Can you take Viagra with metoprolol tartrate together?
Yes, studies indicate that the concomitant use of sildenafil (Viagra) with antihypertensive agents like metoprolol tartrate results in an additive effect which can add to the blood pressure-lowering effect of metoprolol.
However, it should be noted that metoprolol can cause erectile dysfunction. Contact your doctor if you experience signs and symptoms of low blood pressure such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, flushing, headache, or a rapid pulse or heart rate.
How should I take Viagra?
The typical dose of Viagra for erectile dysfunction (ED) is 50 mg. You can take this dose 30 minutes to 4 hours before you plan to have sexual activity. But for most people, it’s recommended that you take your dose about an hour before having sex. Don’t take Viagra more than once a day.
Your doctor may prescribe a different dosage of Viagra for you depending on several factors. These factors may include whether you have liver or kidney problems, or if you’re taking certain other medications. If any of these factors apply to you, your starting dose might be 25 mg, which is lower than the typical recommended dose.
If you have questions about the Viagra dosage that’s right for you, talk with your doctor.
And keep in mind that if Viagra isn’t working for you, your doctor may increase your dose of the drug. But the maximum dose of Viagra is 100 mg.
How should I take metoprolol?
Take metoprolol exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
Metoprolol should be taken with a meal or just after a meal.
Take the medicine at the same time each day.
Swallow the capsule whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it.
A Toprol XL tablet can be divided in half if your doctor has told you to do so. Swallow the half-tablet whole, without chewing or crushing.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
You will need frequent medical tests, and your blood pressure will need to be checked often.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using this medicine.
You should not stop using this medicine suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
If you have high blood pressure, keep using metoprolol even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use this medicine for the rest of your life.
