If you’re experiencing digestive discomfort after a spicy meal, Tums antacids might be your first line of defense. However, individuals taking beta-blockers like metoprolol (brand names include Lopressor and Toprol XL) might be worried about the potential for drug interactions. The encouraging news is that these medications are generally safe to take together when appropriate doses are used.
Continue reading to learn more about the side effects of each medication and why the findings of one small study aren’t enough to warrant worry over co-administration.
Tums and Metoprolol: Safe to Take With Minimal Interactions
Tums is a popular antacid used to treat heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach and other symptoms resulting from too much stomach acid. As a calcium carbonate (a natural chemical compound), an antacid like Tums relieves discomfort by reducing or neutralizing stomach acid. It does this by raising the pH level in your stomach, creating a less acidic environment. It also makes the digestive enzyme pepsin less active, which can further ease discomfort.
Mild side effects like constipation or diarrhea might occur with antacids formulated with other ingredients, such as calcium or magnesium. Additionally, over-the-counter antacids aren’t intended for long-term use as they can lead to problems with acid regulation, increase the risk of osteoporosis and potentially mask more serious conditions.
Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, is typically prescribed to manage high blood pressure, but can also be used to treat severe chest pain. Beta-blockers interfere with adrenaline’s impact on the body’s beta receptors—proteins that influence adrenaline—helping to slow your heartbeat and decrease blood pressure. Common side effects of metoprolol include dizziness, dry mouth, stomach pain and cold hands or feet.
While it’s important to consult a physician before taking any medications alone or simultaneously, there are no proven adverse interactions between Tums and metoprolol, according to Eric Stahl, M.D., a New York-based cardiologist at Northwell Health.
A small study from 1981 found that the concentration of atenolol, a beta-blocker similar to metoprolol, was reduced when the drug was taken in tandem with a calcium carbonate similar to Tums. However, that finding didn’t appear to greatly interfere with the beta-blocker’s effectiveness, Dr. Stahl explains.
“While the concentration of beta-blocker may have been reduced, no change was seen in the physiologic effect of the beta-blocker, as blood pressure remained similar,” clarifies Dr. Stahl. “There have not been any large population studies to further evaluate this interaction.”
To prevent any theoretical absorption issues, individuals might consider taking metoprolol and Tums at least two hours apart, says Stefanie Nigro, PharmD, an associate clinical professor in the Department of Pharmacy Practice at the University of Connecticut.
However, there are plenty of antacid alternatives to Tums. “Other types of acid-suppressing medications are available over the counter, including Pepcid AC and Prilosec OTC,” says Dr. Nigro. “Individuals looking for an alternative antacid should speak to their pharmacist for guidance on selection.”
