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Metoprolol

Prescription
Cardioselective Beta-1 Blocker
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
3 documented
Formulations
3

Mechanism of action

Selective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist that reduces heart rate, contractility, AV conduction, and myocardial oxygen demand without significant beta-2 blockade (bronchospasm or glycogenolysis inhibition) at therapeutic doses.

At a glance

Class
Cardioselective Beta-1 Blocker
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and rat
Dose
0.2–1 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q8h
🐈

Cat

Atenolol is generally preferred in cats (q12h dosing)
Dose
1–5 mg/cat
Route
PO
Frequency
q8h

Formulations

💊

Other — 3

Strength
—
Strength
—
Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Heart rateBlood pressureECGExercise tolerance

Interactions

Contraindicated — 1

Verapamil
contraindicated
IV beta-blocker + IV verapamil: risk of asystole. Even oral combination requires extreme caution.
Management: NEVER give IV simultaneously. Oral combination very rarely justified.

Major — 1

Diltiazem
major
Beta-blocker + non-DHP calcium channel blocker: additive negative chronotropy and dromotropy. Risk of severe bradycardia and AV block.
Management: Avoid concurrent use or use under cardiologist supervision with ECG monitoring.

Moderate — 1

Adrenaline (Epinephrine)
moderate
Cardioselective beta-1 blocker antagonizes epinephrine's beta-1 cardiac effects. Less alpha-blockade concern than non-selective propranolol, but still reduces epinephrine's cardiac stimulatory response.
Management: In anaphylaxis, higher epinephrine doses may be needed. Glucagon as adjunct for beta-blocker-resistant shock.

Brands

Other markets

Lopressor
Toprol XL

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Metoprolol?
Metoprolol is a cardioselective beta-1 blocker used in pets. Selective beta-1 adrenergic antagonist that reduces heart rate, contractility, AV conduction, and myocardial oxygen demand without significant beta-2 blockade (bronchospasm or glycogenolysis inhibition) at therapeutic doses.
›What is Metoprolol used for in pets?
Metoprolol is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and rat; Atenolol is generally preferred in cats (q12h dosing).
›What is the Metoprolol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Metoprolol is typically dosed as follows — Used for supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and rat: 0.2–1 mg/kg PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Metoprolol dose for cats?
For cats, Metoprolol is typically dosed as follows — Atenolol is generally preferred in cats (q12h dosing): 1–5 mg/cat PO q8h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Metoprolol need a prescription?
Yes. Metoprolol is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →