In terms of dollar sales, recent statistics put the angiotensin II receptor blocker valsartan (Diovan) in the lead for high blood pressure medications, followed by the beta blocker metoprolol, the generic combination of valsartan and HCTZ, olmesartan (Benicar), and olmesartan and HCTZ (Benicar HCT). Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that affects the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins). Metoprolol is used to treat angina (chest pain) and hypertension (high blood pressure). This week’s medication review will be about Metoprolol or “Lopressor” for high blood pressure. What is Metoprolol? Metoprolol is the generic form of the brand-name drug Lopressor, prescribed to treat high blood pressure and prevent angina (chest pain). Considering taking medication to treat high blood pressure? Below is a list of common medications used to treat or reduce the symptoms of high blood pressure. Follow the links to read common uses. Like metoprolol, these drugs are used to treat high blood pressure and several other heart problems. Combined with metoprolol, calcium channel blockers may slow your heart rate even more. Doctors. How to use Metoprolol Tartrate. See also Warning section. Take this medication by mouth, with or right after a meal, as directed by your doctor, usually 1-3 times a day. Metoprolol is part of a group of medications called beta blockers that work to help blood vessels relax allowing for decrease in blood pressure and decreasing the workload of the heart. The. USES: Metoprolol is 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. Beta blockers are commonly used medications for the treatment of high blood pressure. They are called so simply because they act on the beta receptors found on blood vessel walls. These receptors are the binding sites for the hormones adrenaline (epinephrine) and noradrenaline (norepinephrine) which are mainly released in response to any kind of stress. About High Blood Pressure: Hypertension means high blood pressure. This generally means: systolic blood pressure is consistently over 140 (systolic is the top number of your blood pressure measurement, which represents the pressure generated when the heart beats).